At 82, Steelers great and two-time Super Bowl victor passes away.
One of the founders of the “Steel Curtain” defence was Andy Russell, a former player with the Steelers.
At the age of 82, Andy Russell, an underappreciated but crucial component of the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defence, passed away. Despite not being a part of the team’s historic run in the 1970s, the former linebacker will always have a special place in the annals of the franchise.
Russell was selected in the 6th round of the 1963 NFL Draft and played his whole 11-year career with Pittsburgh, missing the 1964 and 1965 seasons due to military service. He earned four total All-Pro selections and was named to the Pro Bowl seven times, illustrating exactly why the Steelers inducted him into their Hall of Honor and awarded him a prestigious place on their all-time team.
Perhaps more significant than his on-field accomplishments (38 sacks, 18 interceptions, and 10 fumble recoveries in 168 games) was the effect he had on those who knew him directly. His relationship with the fans and his influence on the field will always be ingrained in the city and its culture.
“He came to us and was immediately a leader — same thing as in college and same thing as in the military,” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Brian Batko was informed by the current owner, Art Rooney II. “I’ve heard that the Steelers were trying to find a team captain, and maybe Ray Mansfield, the centre, told them, ‘Hey, Andy’s a captain.'” He offered everything he had.
Andy Russell paved the path for future Steelers legends.
On the football pitch, Russell saw a lot of defeat and mediocrity until Pittsburgh was able to assemble a formidable defence around him. Upon the arrival of future Pro Football Hall of Famers, No. 34 was everything but territorial. Indeed, he made a special effort to serve as their mentor.
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