10 greatest Steelers draft choices during the Kevin Colbert era

Brett Keisel, Defensive end (2002 NFL Draft: 7th round, pick 242)

Brett Keisel was one of the last selections of the 2002 NFL Draft and he turned himself into a great player. “Fear the Beard” is a saying that many still know very well as this player was able to become one of the most beloved players in franchise history. He has done so much for Pittsburgh both on and off the field.

The Steelers had a great defense at the time of this selection, and it allowed for this player to come along slowly behind some great talents. That time to grow his role from the bench to role player to starter with a few seasons in between. He would go on to win the Super Bowl twice with this team and become an anchor for the club.

The black and gold had one of the best defenses from the time this player was drafted until he retired in 2014 as the old guard started to leave. Keisel would be one of the pulses for the team as his leadership and easygoing attitude helped shape the group. There were many good players on that defense and this defensive lineman was able to hold his own.

Keisel’s career spanned over 13 seasons — all with the Steelers. He was only able to total 30 sacks during that run, but he was able to become one of the best run defenders in the NFL. He had a great career in the league that was another great seventh-round selection by Kevin Colbert and company.