Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 48: a history of the number and who wore it best

The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 48 days until Pittsburgh faces off against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. In the spirit of the countdown, we’re taking a look at the history of No. 48 and the players who wore it best.

Current Steelers No. 48 wearer: FB DJ Thomas-Jones

Rookie FB DJ Thomas-Jones is the only current wearer of No. 48 on the Steelers roster. Signing with Pittsburgh as an undrafted free agent on April 26, 2025, Thomas-Jones played with Ole Miss from 2020 to 2021, and South Alabama from 2022 to 2024. While playing as a tight end in college, the Steelers list him as a fullback — another versatile hybrid that could compete with TE/FB Connor Heyward for a roster spot.

Last five Steelers to wear No. 48:

• DJ Thomas-Jones, 2025-present

• Adetokunbo Ogundeji , 2024

• Godwin Igwebuike , 2023

• Jamir Jones , 2022

• Derrek Tuszka , 2021

Best No. 48 in Steelers history: LB Bud Dupree

Bud Dupree is arguably the best Steeler to ever wear No. 48. Drafted by Pittsburgh with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Dupree became a core part of the Steelers’ pass rush during his six-year tenure in Pittsburgh. He recorded 39.5 sacks with Pittsburgh — tied for 13th most in franchise history — and was known for his explosive burst and edge-setting ability. From 2017 to 2020, he and T.J. Watt formed one of the most dominant edge rush duos in the NFL — but Dupree ultimately left Pittsburgh to sign with the Tennessee Titans in 2021, where he spent two seasons before joining the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. In 2024, he signed with the Los Angeles Chargers on a two-year deal, and recently agreed to a one-year, $6 million contract extension.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 48: history behind the jersey