National Football League

Dawson is 2nd consecutive Steelers center in HOF

Published Aug. 5, 2012 2:11 a.m. ET

foxsports

Dermontti Dawson succeeded Mike Webster as the Pittsburgh Steelers' center. He's also followed him into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Dawson was the fifth of six players inducted into the hall on Saturday night, culminating a career known for versatility and consistency. He played in 170 consecutive games, reached the Pro Bowl seven straight seasons, and led the way for Jerome Bettis to become one of the NFL's top rushers.

Dawson chose high school football coach Steve Parker as is presenter. Parker went up to him in a school hallway during his junior year, put his arm around him and talked him into playing.

Chris Doleman, Cortez Kennedy, Curtis Martin, Willie Roaf and Jack Butler filled out the enshrinement class, which includes four linemen.