The Pittsburgh Steelers have had numerous legendary players throughout their franchise history, which has resulted in multiple Super Bowl championships. While many famous Steelers went on to win the Super Bowl, a handful helped the club achieve success and finally reach the big game. One of these guys, who spent 12 years with Pittsburgh, passed away at the age of 82
Andy Russell, a standout linebacker who played a key role in the team’s transformation from losers to champions, died at the age of 82. Russell’s death was confirmed by the team on Saturday, with no news on the cause or location of death. The outstanding linebacker was chosen in 1963 and won two Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers before being sidelined for two years by the military.
Russell was a team captain for ten years and made seven Pro Bowl appearances. In 1971, he was selected the Most Valuable Player by his whole team, despite the fact that the roster included other superstars such as Joe Greene, Mel Blount, Jack Ham, and Terry Bradshaw. Steelers president Art Rooney II issued a statement about the standout linebacker, emphasizing how much the team respected him as both a player and a person.
Russell was one of the few bright lights on the Pittsburgh club that ended in the bottom half of the league year after year until 1969, when Noll took over as head coach. When coach Noll arrived in Pittsburgh, he made it obvious that he would replace anyone on the squad who failed to produce results. Here’s what Russell said about his previous head coach:
Noll’s views did not apply to Russell, who rapidly established himself as a key member of the Steelers’ defense. While he will be recognized for his on-field achievements, he will also be remembered for his leadership and charisma off the field. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Russell family during this difficult time.
