By Darin 
Born: July 8, 1952, Mantua, Ohio, U.S.
Number 58 for the Pittsburgh Steelers is one of my all-time favorites.
Wanna know the real essence of Lambert, watch this clip and you will know why his playing style resonates with NFL fans:
November 14, 1976
— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) November 14, 2025
Why is #Steelers legend Jack Lambert considered one of the greatest middle linebackers ever?
Exhibit A.
Absorbs the block by the guard, keeps his feet, makes the stop.
Followed by a STICK by J.T. Thomas in Pittsburgh's 14-3 win over Miami.
The Steel Curtain… pic.twitter.com/yTd5uk5tFF
College Career John Harold “Jack” Lambert began his collegiate journey at Kent State University (1971–1973), initially playing quarterback and then defensive end. However, his future was sealed in 1972 when he was moved to middle linebacker by coach Don James. Though slight in build for the position at the time (starting his freshman year at just 187 pounds), Lambert quickly proved his intensity and skill. In 1972, he led the Golden Flashes to their first Mid-American Conference (MAC) football championship. He was honored as the MAC Defensive Player of the Year and the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Tangerine Bowl that season. Lambert was a two-time First-team All-MAC selection (1972, 1973) and left Kent State with 593 career tackles, solidifying his place as one of the program’s greatest players. His jersey, No. 99, was later retired by the university.
Road to the Pro Game Despite lingering concerns among scouts about his size—he weighed around 204 pounds as a rookie—the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Lambert in the second round (46th overall pick) of the legendary 1974 NFL Draft. This class, which also included future Hall of Famers Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, and Mike Webster, laid the foundation for the Steelers dynasty. Lambert immediately stepped into the starting middle linebacker role after an injury to Henry Davis, a position he would hold for his entire professional career (1974–1984), all spent with the Steelers. His immediate impact was undeniable, as he helped transform an already good defense into the legendary “Steel Curtain.”
Football Legacy Lambert is widely considered one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, famously nicknamed “Dracula in Cleats” for his intimidating, gap-toothed snarl and relentless ferocity. He served as the heart and leader of the “Steel Curtain,” the dominant defense that led the Steelers to four Super Bowl championships in six years: Super Bowl IX, X, XIII, and XIV. His combination of intelligence, speed, and aggression made him elite in both stopping the run and covering passes. A defining moment came late in Super Bowl XIV when his key interception preserved the team’s fourth title. His on-field persona and leadership cemented the team’s culture of toughness and dominance throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats Lambert’s decorated career spanned 11 seasons (146 games) and is highlighted by elite recognition:
- Super Bowl Champion: 4× (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year: 2× (1976, 1979)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year: 1974
- Pro Bowl: 9× (Nine consecutive appearances from 1975–1983)
- First-team All-Pro: 6× (1976, 1979–1983)
- NFL All-Decade Team: 1970s and 1980s
- NFL All-Time Teams: 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1990
- Career Totals: 1,479 Total Tackles, 28 Interceptions (returned for 243 yards), 17 Fumble Recoveries.