Former NFL linebacker Andy Russell, who won two Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has died, the NFL announced Saturday. He was 82 years old.
It is unclear at this time how Mr Russell died.
Russell began his career winning two Super Bowls with Pittsburgh. 16th round pick He was selected in the 1963 NFL Draft and played 12 seasons in the league. However, after his rookie season, his football career was temporarily halted when he fulfilled his obligation to the military as a member of ROTC. (Related: Tim Wakefield's widow dies just five months after Red Sox legend dies)
Russell served as the Steelers' team captain for 10 years and was named a seven-time Pro Bowler.
“Andy was a fundamental part of the great Steelers teams of the 1970s,” Steelers President Art Rooney II said in a statement. “He was one of the few players coach Chuck Noll kept on the team after he became head coach in 1969. Andy was the captain of the team and his leadership was He was an important part of Coach Noll's development and paved the way for four Super Bowl championships. ”
Steelers President Art Rooney II spoke about Andy Russell's passing. pic.twitter.com/9rPHCyMdbW
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) March 2, 2024
The 1975 NFL Playoffs brought much attention to Russell's greatness, as the legendary Steeler set a record for the longest postseason fumble return with 93 yards against the Baltimore Colts. That return ended up being a touchdown.
After Pittsburgh lost the AFC Championship to the Oakland Raiders in 1976, Russell retired. He had two sacks in the district round win over Baltimore.
