The Pittsburgh Steelers have a long history of success that dates back to 1933 when they were first established and given the name the Pirates (it changed to Steelers in 1940). Throughout the years, the city has seen many legendary players come and go, but certain athletes stand out. These individuals set records while wearing the iconic black and yellow uniforms, leaving an indelible mark on this storied NFL franchise. They were all part of a classic defense that dominated football in the 1970s. This blog post will examine some of the greatest Steelers to ever play the game.
Associated Press
“Mean” Joe Greene was a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s Steel Curtain defense and a team that became a dynasty in the ’70s.
Joe Greene (DL)
He is regarded as one of the best defensive players to ever don black and gold. The No. 4 overall pick in 1969, "Mean Joe Greene" immediately made an impact and was named NFL Rookie of the Year.
While Greene won't be remembered as much for his numbers (which were still impressive), his influence on Pittsburgh's defense makes him so unique. He revolutionized the 4-3 defense with an innovative "stunt 4-3" technique, forcing opponents to utilize two or even three blockers to contain him. This iconic defense, led by him and the players below, became known as "The Steel Curtain." His leadership and tenacity helped to propel the Steelers dynasty of the 1970s, culminating in four Super Bowl victories over a six-year period.
Jack Lambert (LB)
Vernon Biever / NFL Photo
Steelers linebacker Jack Lambert stands with a fist clenched over Dallas Cowboys running back Robert Newhouse in Pittsburgh's Super Bowl win.
Lambert was another integral part of the Steel Curtain's success in the 1970s. He was taken in the second round of the 1974 draft following the team's selection of Lynn Swann. Throughout his career, Lambert showed an intellect and passion that rendered his tiny stature irrelevant. He was an immediate starter and won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Award.
During his 11-year career, he was chosen to nine consecutive Pro Bowls, was a six-time First Team All-Pro, and was once awarded NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He was also the Steelers' leading tackler in 10 seasons and finished with 1,479 total tackles, 28 interceptions, and 23.5 sacks, cementing him as one of the most dominant linebackers in NFL history.
Mel Blount (DB)
At first glance, it’s obvious why he was such a feared cornerback. With his 6’3” frame and lightning-quick feet, Blount could easily shut down receivers at the line of scrimmage. His ability led to a modification of the rules regarding contact between cornerbacks and wide receivers, creating a more open style of play. He was selected for five Pro Bowls during his 14-season career with Pittsburgh, won Associated Press Most Valuable Defensive Player in 1975, and was inducted into the Steelers All-Time Team and the NFL Hall of Fame (1989).
Jack Ham (LB)
Steelers.com
Another essential piece of the Steelers' dynasty was Ham. Selected in the second round of the 1971 NFL Draft, he immediately helped strengthen the defense. Andy Russell and Steelers Head Coach Chuck Noll both remarked that he was the "fastest Steeler for the first 10 yards, including receivers as well as running backs."
During his 12-year career, he recorded 32 interceptions and was equally adept at run and pass coverage. His Penn State coach Joe Paterno even went so far as to say that Ham never had a poor game! A seven-time Pro Bowler, Ham helped lead Pittsburgh to four Super Bowl victories during his time with them.
Conclusion
The Steelers have had a long and storied history of success. Besides these great players that led to the group being given the moniker "Team of the 70s," other Steelers teams in recent memory experienced triumph. They won two more Super Bowls since 2005, led by Ben Roethlisberger, James Harrison, and Troy Polamalu.
Greene, Lambert, Blount, and Ham were all integral pieces that helped cement one of the NFL's greatest dynasties and remain some of the most beloved players in team history. If you're a die-hard fan looking to stay up to date with all things related to the Pittsburgh Steelers gamelines, check out our blog for regular updates!
