The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 29 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. 29 and the players who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 29 wearer: S Sebastian Castro, K Ben Sauls
There are two current wearers of No. 29 on the Steelers roster — rookies safety Sebastian Castro and kicker Ben Sauls. Castro, a standout defensive back out of Iowa, was considered one of the best undrafted free agents after going unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sauls, who played for the University of Pittsburgh from 2020 to 2024, could see plenty of preseason opportunities with All-Pro K Chris Boswell holding out for a new deal.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 29:
- Sebastian Castro, 2025-present
- Ben Sauls, 2025-present
- Aaron Shampklin, 2024
- Ryan Watts, 2024
- Levi Wallace, 2022-2023
Best No. 29 in Steelers history: RB Barry Foster
While the No. 29 doesn’t have the storied history of other jersey numbers, the best Steelers wearer is without a doubt RB Barry Foster, who was drafted by Pittsburgh with the 128th overall pick in the fifth round of the 1990 NFL Draft. Injuries derailed what could’ve been a fruitful career — but when healthy in 1992, he set the Steelers’ single-season rushing yards record with 1,690, being named to his first Pro Bowl and lone First-Team All-Pro selection in the process. He also finished second in MVP voting behind Hall of Fame 49ers QB Steve Young — but never came close to replicating his successful 1992 season over the next few years of his career. Still, this accomplishment will live as one of the greatest single-season performances for a Steelers running back of all time — truly deserving as the best to ever wear No. 29.
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