Sophia
Stanford, CA – The Stanford Sports Hall of Fame officially welcomed a new class of athletic legends last night, celebrating individuals who left an indelible mark on the university’s storied sports programs. Among the distinguished inductees is former Pittsburgh Steelers first-round draft pick, David DeCastro, whose exceptional career at Stanford and in the NFL solidified his place in Cardinal history.
From Cardinal Star to NFL Cornerstone
DeCastro, a native of Kirkland, Washington, chose Stanford over numerous collegiate offers, committing to play for the Cardinal from 2008 to 2011. After redshirting his true freshman season, he quickly established himself as a dominant force on the offensive line.
- 2009: Became the starting right guard, earning an honorable mention All-Pac-10 selection.
- 2010: Started all 13 games, earning first-team All-Pac-10 honors.
- 2011: Achieved unanimous first-team All-American status and was again a first-team All-Pac-12 selection, anchoring an offensive line that propelled Stanford to an 11-1 regular season and a Fiesta Bowl appearance.
During his time at Stanford, DeCastro was instrumental in protecting quarterback Andrew Luck, who has since returned to The Farm as the General Manager of the football program. Their partnership was a cornerstone of a highly successful era for Cardinal football.
A Stellar NFL Career with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Forgoing his final season of eligibility, DeCastro entered the 2012 NFL Draft and was selected 24th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He quickly became a cornerstone of their offensive line for nine seasons, earning a reputation as one of the league’s premier guards.
His impressive professional accolades include:
- Six-time Pro Bowler: (2015-2020)
- First-team All-Pro: (2015, 2017)
- Second-team All-Pro: (2016)
DeCastro’s consistent dominance and leadership were vital to the Steelers’ success during his tenure. Though released by the Steelers after the 2020 season and not having played a down of football since, his induction into the Stanford Hall of Fame signals a definitive end to a remarkable playing career.
A Legacy Immortalized
The Stanford Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes who have not only excelled during their collegiate careers but often gone on to achieve significant professional success. While DeCastro may not be an NFL Hall of Famer, his legacy at Stanford is now forever immortalized, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.
Stanford Hall of Fame Class of 2025
DeCastro joins an elite group of athletes in the Stanford Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This esteemed class includes:
- Sarah Beeson Andersen (Softball)
- (Women’s Tennis) – *Name omitted in original text*
- David DeCastro (Football)
- Ryan Garko (Baseball)
- Dan Gill (Men’s Gymnastics)
- Kiley Neushul (Women’s Water Polo)
- Kelley O’Hara (Women’s Soccer)
- Jeanette Pohlen (Women’s Basketball)
- Chasson Randle (Men’s Basketball)
- Tank Williams (Football)
This induction not only celebrates DeCastro’s individual achievements but also highlights Stanford’s enduring commitment to athletic excellence and the profound impact its alumni have on the world of sports.
