Steelers’ Mel Blount Details Most Grateful Aspect Of His Career

The Pittsburgh Steelers experienced considerable success in the 1970's, with few dynasties as accomplished as theirs during that era. Among the great stars of the team that won four Super Bowls was cornerback Mel Blount.

Blount played a significant role in the Steelers' legendary success in the 1970's. He was a five-time Pro Bowler, a two-time All-Pro, the 1975 AP Defensive Player of the Year, and a Hall of Famer. Over his 14-season career, he amassed 57 interceptions. One of the big reasons for the Steelers' success in the '70s was their defense which was coined The Steel Curtain. 

The defense of the Steelers stood as an indomitable force, striking fear into the hearts of opponents across the league. Led by legendary figures like Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham, L.C. Greenwood, Ernie Holmes, Dwight White, and Blount, this formidable unit was renowned for its ferocity and skill. Opposing offenses trembled at the mere mention of facing off against these titans of the gridiron. 

Their combined talents formed an impenetrable wall, thwarting even the most formidable of adversaries and earning them a reputation as one of the most dominant defensive lineups in football history. Each member brought their own unique strengths to the field, complementing one another seamlessly to create a cohesive and relentless defensive machine. 

From Greene's imposing presence on the line, Lambert's intimidating presence in the middle, Greenwood's relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, and Blount's lockdown coverage in the secondary, every player played an integral role in the defense's success. Together, they forged a legacy that would be remembered and revered for generations to come, inspiring awe and admiration in fans and foes alike.

Blount was interviewed on Wheeling's WTRF 7 News ahead of Super Bowl LVIII to discuss his memories of playing in those big games. He expressed one of the most devastating aspects of sports and how grateful he was to never experience it.

"The one thing about the teams that I played on is everybody wanted to be the guy who made the big play. I think that's what really made us special. When you got to the Super Bowl, I couldn't even fathom the fact that we would lose the Super Bowl. It's got to be the most devastating thing to happen to you in sports. When you get to the biggest game the game has to offer and all of a sudden come up short.”

Blount played in four Super Bowls with the Steelers in 1974, 1975, 1978, and 1979. He was fortunate enough to walk away victorious in all four of those games. Something he is deeply thankful for. 

"When I look back at my career, and all the Super Bowls we played in, that's one thing I'm very grateful for. Is the fact that we walked away winners."

According to numerous professional athletes, not too many things in sports hurt as badly as losing the big game. For NFL players, getting to the Super Bowl is one of the greatest accomplishments in the world, something for which you work so hard. When you get that far and come so close, only to fall short, the pain is profound. Former Steelers player Ryan Clark is on record stating he would rather not make the Super Bowl if they are going to lose it. That's how painful losing this game is.

Blount went on to share his belief in how massive the Super Bowl actually is, not just in terms of American sports, but also in global sports.

“It’s the greatest sporting event we have in our country. It might be the greatest in the world.”

The Steelers have not experienced any Super Bowl success as of late. Their last playoff win came during the 2016 season. Despite boasting a talented roster, they have struggled to find consistency on the offensive end. The league has currently evolved away from their style of play. Now, they are tasked with improving their offense and returning to the glory days of Steeler football, characterized by winning championships.

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