5 most underappreciated players in Steelers history

Donnie Shell has only gotten some notoriety in recent years

Donnie Shell was probably the third-best safety to ever play the position for the Steelers throughout their history. He was a hard-hitting player that had many eye-popping smacks during his time. This player was constantly overlooked on the famous Steel Curtain defenses as the line usually got most of the attention.

He played in a secondary full of many underappreciated players that fans might not remember enough. Mike Wagner, J.T. Thomas, and Glen Edwards were some notable players in the secondary along with Mel Blount. Everyone, including Shell, were good players that helped this defense become one of the best in the history of the league.

Many people also do not know that Shell was technically a part of the famous 1974 draft class. He was signed as an undrafted free agent coming out of South Carolina State that year. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and finally join the most elite club in football with his Hall of Fame induction in the class of 2020.

It took a long time, but Shell finally got his due and was another Steelers legend who was entered into the eternal brotherhood in Canton. He has begun to get some notoriety for his play in recent years, but he continues to be one of the most overlooked star defensive talents in black and gold history.