Casey Hampton, Steelers' 22nd Best Draft Pick

The nose tackle was a key cog in the Steelers' dominant defense for over a decade

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:25am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in the middle of a play, with their jersey number partially visible but their face and other identifying features abstracted into sharp, overlapping planes of color.The Steelers' dominant nose tackle, Casey Hampton, was a key cog in the team's defensive success for over a decade.Today in Pittsburgh

Casey Hampton, a first-round draft pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2001, is ranked as the 22nd best draft selection in the team's history. Hampton spent his entire 12-year NFL career with the Steelers, playing a crucial role in the team's defense and helping them win two Super Bowl championships.

Why it matters

Hampton was a dominant force at nose tackle, anchoring the Steelers' defensive line and allowing the linebackers to make plays. His selection in the 2001 draft was a key part of the Steelers' sustained success over the past two decades, which includes 43 winning seasons and 6 Super Bowl titles.

The details

Hampton was a 5-time Pro Bowl selection and was named the Steelers' MVP in 2005. He recorded 403 total tackles, 39 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles over his 173 career games with the Steelers. Hampton was also a member of the Steelers' 75th Anniversary Team and was inducted into the team's Hall of Honor.

  • The Steelers drafted Hampton in the 1st round of the 2001 NFL Draft.
  • Hampton played for the Steelers from 2001 to 2012, winning Super Bowls XL and XLIII.
  • He was named to the Pro Bowl 5 times (2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009).
  • Hampton was named the Steelers' MVP in 2005.

The players

Casey Hampton

A dominant nose tackle who spent his entire 12-year NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, helping the team win two Super Bowl championships.

Dick LeBeau

The Steelers' defensive coordinator who credited the start of the team's defensive success to the presence of Casey Hampton at nose tackle.

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What they’re saying

“Dick LeBeau credited the start of success with his defense to Hampton at nose tackle.”

— Dick LeBeau, Steelers Defensive Coordinator

The takeaway

Casey Hampton's selection in the 2001 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as he became a cornerstone of their dominant defense for over a decade. His impact as a nose tackle allowed the team's linebackers to thrive, contributing to the Steelers' sustained success and multiple Super Bowl championships.