Greene, out of North Texas, arrived in the Steel City in 1969 and, over the next 13 seasons, anchored one of the most feared defensive units in league history. The "Steel Curtain" helped Pittsburgh reverse its fortunes and claim four Super Bowls from 1974 to 1979. Greene was named the NFL's top rookie in 1969, earned 10 Pro Bowl nominations and was named the league's best defensive player in 1972 and '74.
The 6-foot-4, 275-pounder started in 172 of 181 contests before hanging up his cleats after the 1981 campaign. No Steelers player has worn Greene's iconic number since then.
"I'm overwhelmed with emotions," Greene said. "I'm extremely pleased and I know that Dan (Rooney) and Art (Rooney II) put a lot of thought into making this decision. Retiring jerseys is not something that the Steelers do. That makes it even more significant."
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