By Darin 
Born on May 2, 1959, in Scottdale, Pennsylvania, Russ Scott Grimm emerged from the heart of football country to become one of the most respected interior linemen in the history of the sport.
College Career
At the University of Pittsburgh, Grimm was the centerpiece of an era defined by grit and elite talent. Entering Pitt as a 205-pound linebacker, he displayed his trademark adaptability by converting to center to fill a depth need. By the time he finished his collegiate career, Grimm had bulked up to 270 pounds and was protecting future Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino. Between 1979 and 1980, Grimm anchored an offensive line that propelled the Panthers to a staggering 22–2 record, consistently ranking among the nation’s best.
Road to the Pro Game
The Washington Redskins recognized Grimm’s potential, selecting him in the third round (69th overall) of the 1981 NFL Draft. While he was an accomplished center at Pitt, Washington moved him to left guard—a transition he made with ease. As a rookie, he earned a starting role and quickly became a founding member of “The Hogs,” the legendary offensive line unit coached by Joe Bugel. Alongside tackle Joe Jacoby, Grimm formed a punishing left side that revolutionized the power-running game. +2
Football Legacy
Grimm’s legacy is inextricably linked to the dominance of the Washington Redskins in the 1980s. He was the intelligent, relentless engine of a front five that led the franchise to four Super Bowl appearances and three championships. His “smashmouth” style and ability to pull as a lead blocker made him a nightmare for defensive tackles. Beyond his playing days, Grimm extended his football footprint through a successful coaching career, notably winning a fourth Super Bowl ring as the offensive line coach for the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers. +1
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
Grimm was a model of consistency and excellence, earning the highest individual honors available to a lineman.
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2010.
- Super Bowl Champion: 3x as a player (XVII, XXII, XXVI); 1x as a coach (XL).
- All-Pro Honors: 4x First-team All-Pro (1983–1986).
- Pro Bowl Selections: 4 consecutive (1983–1986).
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team: First-team selection.
- Career Statistics:
- Games Played: 140
- Games Started: 114
- Fumble Recoveries: 7