The Pittsburgh Steelers have always been defined by grit, toughness, and a commitment to winning that runs through every generation of the team. Pittsburgh fans know that excellence is not handed out. It is earned on the field, play by play, season by season. Now, one of the franchise’s greatest voices, "Mean" Joe Greene, is speaking out about a teammate who has been overlooked for far too long.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Steel Curtain: Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, L.C. Greenwood and Joe Greene.
Pittsburgh has long celebrated L.C. Greenwood for his dominance on the defensive line, but recognition from the Pro Football Hall of Fame has continued to elude him. Year after year, fans and analysts alike have argued that Greenwood’s impact on the Steel Curtain deserves more than just respect in the stands. It deserves a spot among the game’s immortals in Canton, Ohio.
Steelers history is filled with legendary players, unforgettable moments, and a tradition of excellence that runs deep. For many, Greenwood’s absence from the Hall of Fame is a glaring omission. It has left fans frustrated and hungry for answers. Greene’s perspective on Greenwood and his career gives Steeler Nation exactly the insight they have been waiting for.
"I was disappointed [about L.C. Greenwood not getting in the Hall of Fame]," Greene said while speaking on Pittsburgh's DSEN's YouTube channel. "When I was watching the [NFL] Honors program and I saw the five guys introduced, I wasn't quite sure if they were introducing the five Contemporary [enshrinees only] or, as we call them, the Old Timers [the Seniors]. When they finished with the five, I said, 'Well, maybe they're putting another group in.' It didn't happen, so I'm sitting there watching and watching. Sure, I was disappointed."
Greene’s disappointment was palpable, and it reflected what many Steelers fans felt when Greenwood was again left off the Hall of Fame ballot. Greenwood’s contributions to the Steel Curtain were immense, but recognition at the highest level has remained frustratingly out of reach.
Walter Loos Jr/Sports Illustrated
Steelers defensive end L.C. Greenwood finished with four sacks of Roger Staubach in Pittsburgh’s win in Super Bowl X, highlighting his pass‑rushing dominance in the title game.
Greene didn’t hold back in describing how personal the moment felt, showing just how much respect and admiration he has for his long-time teammate. For fans, it was a reminder of Greenwood’s lasting impact and the legacy that continues to be overlooked. Greene went on to describe his years on the field with Greenwood and what made him such a special player.
"I explained my career together, 13 years," Greene said. "Speed and athleticism and a will to win. And with his length and his speed, L.C. was just incredible. In his second year, he came in and took over for Lloyd [Voss], and we had some fun together. We really did."
This was the furthest Greenwood has ever made it in the Hall of Fame process. He’s been eligible for 40 years, and the only senior player put forward this year was San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig.
Steelers Fans Not Happy About L.C. Greenwood Not Getting Into The Hall Of Fame
Greenwood was a six-time Pro Bowler, two-time First Team All-Pro, and had 78 career sacks, all while anchoring the Steel Curtain defense. The fact that those sacks aren’t official might be part of the reason he’s still not in.
Steelers.com
Steelers all-time greats: Joe Greene, Mel Blount, and L.C. Greenwood look on while being recognized by the fans in the Steel City of Pittsburgh.
Steelers fans sounded off all across social media after Greenwood was not voted in again. Many believe there is a serious flaw in the Hall of Fame voting process. This comes after a lot of controversy involving other all-time greats who have been left out, including New England Patriots' Bill Belichick.
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