The Pittsburgh Steelers have recently earned epic praise from none other than Jason Kelce, who is regarded as one of the greater current names in the NFL. Jason, along with his brother Travis Kelce, host a podcast called New Heights, where they’ve been running a contest to determine the best team name in the NFL. The Steelers have emerged as one of the top contenders, currently facing off against the Buffalo Bills in the final four.
On various social media platforms, Jason has been vocal about his endorsement of the Steelers as having the superior name and culture compared to the Bills. When asked to choose between the Bills and the Steelers, he left no room for doubt.
“As much as I love both of these names, to me, there is one clear favorite, and I have endorsed this team the entire competition, and will continue to endorse the Pittsburgh Steelers as the greatest name in the NFL. Fandom aside, what it represents is just too good to deny.”
The Steelers’ name has a rich and unique origin story, deeply intertwined with the city’s industrial history and the tradition of naming sports teams after their baseball counterparts. According to Team Name Origin, the story dates back to 1933 when Art Rooney, a visionary entrepreneur, was awarded a pro football franchise.
At that time, Rooney decided to name his team the Pirates, in homage to Pittsburgh’s beloved baseball team. However, by 1939, the Pirates football team was facing significant challenges. Recognizing the need for a fresh start, Rooney sought help from the local newspaper and initiated a “name-the-team” contest.
Among the numerous entries received, one name stood out above all others – Steelers. This name was suggested to honor the city’s deep connection to the steel industry, a fundamental part of Pittsburgh’s identity. Joe Santoni, an employee at Pittsburgh Steel and a devoted fan, was among those who proposed “Steelers” as the new team name. In recognition of his contribution, Santoni was awarded a pair of season tickets, a gesture he cherished until he sadly passed away in 2003.
The name Steelers quickly became synonymous with Pittsburgh’s unyielding toughness, unwavering tenacity, and blue-collar spirit. It laid the foundation for a storied franchise that would go on to win numerous championships and capture the hearts of fans not only in Pittsburgh but also worldwide.
The Steelers’ name, rooted in the city’s industrial heritage and chosen with the help of the community, continues to earn epic praise and endorsement, even from NFL greats like Jason. This name represents more than just a football team; it embodies the essence of Pittsburgh itself – a city of resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit.
It’s truly remarkable to witness such high praise from one of the NFL’s greatest centers. While the Steelers are currently engaged in a fierce battle against the Bills in a contest of culture and reputation, it’s evident that they might hold the upper hand based on the accolades they’ve received from Jason.
