Former Steelers OL Praises Pittsburgh as 'Best Organization'

Derwin Gray says playing for the Steelers was the top experience of his career.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:36pm

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Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Derwin Gray has high praise for the organization, calling it the 'best team I ever played for' and the 'best organization' despite only spending two seasons with the team. Gray, who was drafted by the Steelers in 2019 and spent time on their practice squad and active roster, said the Steelers have 'a lot of veteran people' both on and off the field that made it a special experience for him.

Why it matters

The Steelers are one of the most successful and respected franchises in the NFL, known for their strong team culture and loyal fan base. Gray's glowing endorsement of the organization underscores the Steelers' reputation and the impact they can have on players, even those who only spend a short time with the team.

The details

Gray, who was selected by the Steelers in the 6th round of the 2019 NFL Draft, spent his rookie season on the team's practice squad before appearing in 5 games in 2020. He was then waived by the Steelers in December 2020 and went on to play for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and most recently the Birmingham Stallions of the USFL and the BC Lions of the CFL. Despite his limited time in Pittsburgh, Gray says the Steelers organization and culture left a lasting impression on him, ranking it as the best team he's ever played for.

  • Gray was drafted by the Steelers in 2019.
  • He spent his rookie season on the Steelers' practice squad in 2019.
  • Gray appeared in 5 games for the Steelers in the 2020 season.
  • The Steelers waived Gray in December 2020.
  • Gray has since played for the Jaguars, Titans, Stallions, and Lions.

The players

Derwin Gray

A former offensive lineman who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 and spent two seasons with the team before playing for several other NFL and professional football organizations.

Pittsburgh Steelers

One of the most successful and respected franchises in the NFL, known for their strong team culture and loyal fan base.

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What they’re saying

“Pittsburgh was the best team I ever played for. And it still is today. Pittsburgh is the best organization. It had a lot of veteran people there. When I say veteran, not just veterans on the field, but veterans off the field.”

— Derwin Gray, Former Steelers Offensive Lineman

The takeaway

Derwin Gray's high praise for the Pittsburgh Steelers organization, even after only spending a short time with the team, speaks to the franchise's strong reputation and the lasting impact it can have on players. The Steelers' commitment to building a winning culture and supporting their players both on and off the field is clearly appreciated by those who have been a part of it.