Football History

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In a dramatic March makeover, the Pittsburgh Steelers revamped their quarterback situation. They dealt away their 2022 first-round pick, Kenny Pickett, to the Philadelphia Eagles, signaling a change in direction. To fill the void, the Steelers made a splash by signing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, a proven winner with exceptional talent.

This move wasn't the only surprise. The Steelers also acquired Justin Fields, a young quarterback with starting experience, from the Chicago Bears at a bargain price. This two-pronged approach gives the Steelers options: a veteran leader in Wilson and a potential future franchise quarterback in Fields. While the full impact of these moves remains to be seen, one thing is sure: the Steelers' quarterback room is no longer a question mark. It's a position of strength, poised to lead the team into a new era.

This is not the first time that the Steelers franchise's QB room has been shaken up and changed, but it might be the fastest and most dramatic. We will analyze these moves in March 2024 and tell the history of the Steelers Signal Caller Shakeups.

1950s Era Legendary Room
Has there ever been a more enormous blunder on NFL QB talent than what the Steelers did in the mid-1950s?

Walt Kiesling was on his second stint as the head coach of the Steelers in the mid-1950s. In his last few years with the franchise, which was filled with Hall of Fame legends, All-Pros, and legends, he ran pretty much a quarterback carousel.

Before the 1955 season, Jim Finks, Paul Heidt, a ninth-round Draft pick from Louisville, a local kid named Johnny Unitas, and another local arm from Franklin, PA, Ted Marchibroda.

-Unitas did not make the team! The legend, of course, would get signed by the Baltimore Colts a bit later. Johnny U. set multiple NFL records and was named LFL MVP three times, earning spots on ten Pro Bowl rosters and five first-team All-Pro honors. He helped lead the Colts to four NFL championship titles.

In 1956, the Pittsburgh QB room consisted of Marchibroda and Jack Scarbath.

In 1957, the Pittsburgh Quarterbacks comprised Len Dawson, Earl Morrall, and Jack Kemp. Kielsing was demoted to an assistant, and Buddy Parker was brought in as the coach.

-Dawson was let go in 1959, and the Cleveland Browns signed him for two seasons before also cutting ties with him. He then became an AFC Dallas Texan who moved to Missouri after one year in Big D. He is, of course, enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame after a Super Bowl Championship in which he was the game MVP in seven Pro Bowls and 2 All-Pro Seasons as a Kansas City Chiefs.

-Pittsburgh released Jack Kemp after the 1957 season. He sat out of football for two years and then was picked up by the AFL's Chargers. After a year in LA and another in San Diego with the Bolts, he signed a contract with AFL rival the Buffalo Bills and led that team to two AFL titles, seven Pro Bowls, and a couple of All-Pro Seasons.

-The Steelers once coveted Earl Morrall. On September 16, 1957, Pittsburgh acquired Morrall from the San Francisco 49ers and guard Mike Sandusky in exchange for two first-round draft picks and linebacker Marv Matuszak. After just one season, the Steelers traded their prize quarterback to the Detroit Lions for future Hall of Famer Bobby Layne.

1958 Morrall's early-season trade left HOFs Bobby Layne and Len Dawson as the remaining signal callers. The Steelers went 7-4-1 and missed the Playoffs. The two stayed in Pittsburgh for 1959, and the team registered a 6-5-1 record.

1970s QB room

In the early 1970s, the Steelers had three potential starting quarterbacks: Terry Hanratty, Terry Bradshaw, and Joe Gilliam. In 1973 and 1974, all three of these signal-callers saw starts for the Steelers in both seasons. At the end of the 1974 season, the Steelers won Super Bowl IX, and Bradshaw secured the job.

1984 Signal Callers

David Woodley, the Dolphins' Rookie of the Year in 1980 and recently unseated by Miami newcomer Dan Marino, arrived in Pittsburgh to compete with Mark Malone for the Steelers' quarterback duties. The team ended up going 10-6.

1990s QB Rooms
Neil O'Donnell and Bubby Brister battled it out for the starting job, and the team went 7-9 in Chuck Noll's final season. These two again were the quarterbacks when the Steelers improved to 11-5 under first-year head coach Bill Cowher.

Brister exited the next season, and Mike Tomzak joined the fray. O'Donnell took the team to 9-7, 12-4 in 1994, and 11-5 in 1995, losing the Super Bowl to Dallas, with the young arms of Jim Miller and Kordell Stewart joining the room.

New Millenium and a Franchise QB

The Steelers took Ben Roethlisberger with the 11th pick of the 2004 NFL Draft. Big Ben joined youngster Brian St. Pierre and a resurging Tommy Maddux.

However you look at it, changing the roster of the most important position on the team is the ultimate gamble of a franchise. The moves the Steelers have made in their QB room in March of 2024 look brilliant but only the play this fall will dictate if they were the right moves. The gambles on unwanted arms filled with potential and past glories don't always translate to "W"s on Sunday. Just look at the history of the team in similar circumstances. But Gosh what a fun ride it is to see Omar Khan pull his magic. Here We Go!

Rocky Bleier's story is more than just a football career; it's a testament to human resilience and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

A Late Draft Pick and Drafted Again:

Bleier, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 16th round of the 1968 NFL Draft, was a late bloomer who faced initial skepticism due to his size and perceived lack of speed. However, his competitive spirit and dedication soon caught the eye of coaches.

The Vietnam War Interrupts a Promising Career:

Just as his football career was beginning to take shape, Bleier's life took an unexpected turn. Drafted into the U.S. Army, he was deployed to Vietnam and severely wounded by shrapnel in both legs during combat. Doctors initially feared he might never walk again.

Unwavering Determination and a Miraculous Recovery:

Despite overwhelming odds, Bleier embarked on a grueling rehabilitation process. Fueled by an unwavering determination and fueled by a desire to return to football, he defied doctor's expectations and slowly regained his ability to walk, then run.

A Second Chance and Super Bowl Glory:

Bleier's return to the Steelers was nothing short of remarkable. His perseverance and work ethic paid off, eventually earning him a starting spot as a fullback. He became a key contributor to the Steelers' dominant teams of the 1970s, known as the "Steel Curtain," playing in four Super Bowls and winning four championship rings.

From Hero to Inspiration:

Bleier's story transcended the world of sports. He became an inspiration to millions, showcasing the power of human spirit and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

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The Heart of the Secondary: Why Mike Wagner Was Just as Important as Greene and Ham to the Steel Curtain's Success.

Mike Wagner wasn't the biggest player on the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, but his impact was undeniable. This essay explores Wagner's remarkable career, highlighting his exceptional ball-hawking skills, his leadership within the secondary, and his lasting contribution to the Steelers' dynasty of the 1970s.

-A Natural Ballhawk: From College Star to NFL Safety (Early 1970s)

Born June 22, 1949, Mike Wagner displayed a knack for interceptions from a young age. He starred as a safety at Western Illinois University, terrorizing opposing quarterbacks with his instincts and ability to read plays. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1971, Wagner landed in a perfect situation. Head Coach Chuck Noll, a defensive mastermind, was building a unit that emphasized speed and aggression in the secondary. Wagner, with his relentless pursuit of the ball, fit seamlessly into this philosophy.

-The Quarterback's Nightmare: A Master of Interceptions (1971-1980)

Wagner quickly established himself as the heart of the Steel Curtain secondary. His exceptional range and anticipation skills made him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. Throughout his career, Wagner amassed an impressive 41 interceptions, a franchise record that stood for decades. His ability to read offenses and break on throws created countless turnovers, turning the tide of games in the Steelers' favor. His defensive prowess wasn't limited to interceptions; Wagner was a tenacious tackler, shutting down running backs in the open field and contributing to the overall stinginess of the Steel Curtain defense.

-Leadership Beyond Stats: A Vocal Leader and Team Player (1971-1980)

Wagner's leadership extended beyond his impressive statistics. He was a vocal leader in the secondary, directing his teammates and ensuring proper coverage schemes were executed. His experience and knowledge of the game were invaluable assets, allowing the entire defense to function at a peak level. Wagner wasn't just about individual accolades; he was a team player, dedicated to the Steelers' overall success. His work ethic and positive attitude earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike.

-A Champion's Legacy (1971-1980, Present Day)

Mike Wagner's career culminated with four Super Bowl victories with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a testament to the dominance of the Steel Curtain defense. Following his retirement in 1980, he transitioned into his post-football life, working in financial services and banking realm. Wagner's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He is remembered as a ball-hawking safety who epitomized the aggressive style of the Steel Curtain. His leadership and contributions to the Steelers' defensive dominance remain etched in the franchise's history. Mike Wagner's story is an inspiration to defensive backs, reminding us that a combination of talent, instincts, and unwavering passion can turn a player into a champion.

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The story of Jack Butler and his rise to stardom for the Pittsburgh Steelers. A sample of the early Pittsburgh Steelers history.

Jack Butler, a name synonymous with the Pittsburgh Steelers, etched his mark in the annals of NFL history. Drafted by the Steelers in 1952, Butler's career was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. As a cornerback, his ability to intercept passes and disrupt opposing offenses was unparalleled.

Butler's tenure with the Steelers was marked by consistent excellence. His knack for reading quarterbacks' intentions and his lightning-fast reflexes made him a nightmare for opposing wide receivers. His interceptions and forced fumbles were instrumental in securing victories for the Steelers.

Beyond his on-field prowess, Butler's contributions to the NFL extended far beyond his playing days. His post-career involvement in scouting and player evaluation played a crucial role in shaping the league's talent pipeline.

His insights and expertise were invaluable to teams across the NFL.  

In recognition of his outstanding career, Jack Butler was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012. His legacy as a Steelers legend and a pillar of the NFL will continue to inspire generations of football fans and players.

The World War II merger of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Eagles was out of personnel shortage necessity. it made for an interesting year with two head coaches and duel host cities, A sample of the early Pittsburgh Steelers history.

1943 wasn't your typical year for American football. World War II raged on, depleting rosters across the league and forcing some teams to make unthinkable decisions. Enter the "Steagles," the unlikely merger of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, a temporary union born out of necessity that would become one of the most unique chapters in NFL history.

The concept was simple: combine the remaining players from both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh into a single team, allowing both franchises to survive the wartime talent drain. While the official name remained "Phil-Pitt Combine," the moniker "Steagles" quickly took hold, capturing the imagination of fans and media alike.

Head coach Greasy Neale and Walt Kiesling from the Eagles and Steelers, respectively, faced the daunting task of blending two distinct playing styles and rivalries. But the "Steagles" defied expectations. Led by quarterback Tommy Thompson, halfback Steve Van Buren, and a gritty defense, they played with the swagger of seasoned veterans, despite many players lacing up their cleats for the first time.

Despite a bumpy start, the Steagles found their rhythm. They upset established teams like the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, proving their mettle against the league's best. Their hard-nosed, run-heavy offense and stingy defense became their trademarks, earning them the respect of their opponents and the admiration of fans across the country.

The 1943 season culminated in a 5-4-1 record, a respectable feat considering the circumstances. Though they missed the playoffs, the Steagles achieved something far greater: they kept professional football alive in two cities, providing a much-needed escape and fostering a sense of resilience during a tumultuous time.

The merger had its challenges. Rivalries simmered beneath the surface, and disagreements arose between coaching staffs. But ultimately, the camaraderie and shared purpose of playing for their respective cities and for the sport itself cemented the bond between the players and coaches.

The Steagles disbanded at the end of the 1943 season, returning to their separate identities as the Eagles and Steelers. However, their legacy endures. They serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration, resourcefulness, and the unwavering spirit of the game itself. The "Steagles" may have been a one-season wonder, but their story continues to inspire, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of football can find a way to triumph.

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Looking at old memorbilia of your favorite team is cool and it rekindles memories of glory days and legendary players. The collectibles are treasures that preserve football history in such a magical and adictive manner.

In this episode, we talk with Vintage Football Collector Derek Crawford about his amazing Pittsburgh Professional Football Memorabilia collection that includes Steelers items from every season, including Art Rooney teams before the 1933 Pirates of the NFL.

Derek Crawford grew up in the Pittsburgh area and, like most other kids who grew up in the 1970s in Western Pennsylvania, was swept into the frenzy of Super Steelers Mania. Derek kept the passion for his team throughout his teenage years and beyond. At some point after some childhood, Topps Football Card collecting the bug for having memorabilia of the Pittsburgh area gridiron grew. At the time of this writing, Derek has an extensive collection that spans from some well-curated pigskin media of the 19th century, including some Harper's Weekly articles and graphics to modern-day bobbleheads, pennants, autographed footballs, and more. Derek collects the pieces, stories, and football history behind them.

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The newspaper clipping identifies the renaming of Art Rooney's franchise from the Pittsburgh Pirates to the Pittsburgh Steelers. All part of the Steelers origin story.

The Pirates were a natural choice as a name in the infancy of the team in a young National FOotball League that was trying to find its footing in the American public. The More established MLB teams in cities would be a quick way to give credibility to an NFL squad and identify with the locals.

The Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team was well established and connected with the region, so Rooney's hope was his football team could endear with them sooner as well.

Born November 24, 1929 - John Henry Johnson was a great fullback who attended St. Mary’s University and was the second pick in the 1953 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, as told on the profootballhof.com internet site.

Johnson rushed for over 1000 yards in both the 1962 and 1964 seasons and was the first Steeler to ever accomplish the feat. After his contract ended in Pittsburgh, he played in the CFL for a season and then returned to the NFL with the 49ers and Detroit Lions and then played his 13th and final por season with the AFL’s Houston Oilers.

After the dust on his brilliant career had settled, Johnson accounted for 6803 career rushing yards and ranked him fourth on the All-Time rushing list. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined John Henry Johnson in the class of 1987.

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Two-time Super Bowl Champion Craig Colquitt sat down with us to discuss his amazing College and NFL career, Family, and some amazing stories about his interaction with game legends like Mean Joe Greene, Bum Phillips, Johnny Majors, Chuck Noll, Mike Webster, and more!

Craig played college ball at the University of Tennessee. His final two years were under the tutelage of a former punter, Legendary Head Coach Johnny Majors. Coach Majors spent a lot of time with his young punter, helping to change Colquitt's productivity and eventually bringing attention from NFL teams.

Craig was drafted in the third round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He spent eight seasons in the National Football League (NFL) with the Pittsburgh Steelers (1978–1981, 1983–1984) and Colts (1987). He was a member of two NFL championship teams with the Steelers in Super Bowls XIII and XIV.

His Sons Dustin and Britton also played for the Volunteers and later won their own Super Bowl rings punting in the NFL.

John Banaszak wasn't your typical NFL star. He wasn't a flashy quarterback or a prolific running back. Banaszak's legacy lies in the trenches, where his imposing presence and relentless style of play earned him the nickname "The Enforcer." This essay explores Banaszak's football career, highlighting his dominance as a defensive end for the Pittsburgh Steelers, his controversial reputation, and his lasting impact on the game.

-From Marine to Menace: A Formidable Force (1968-1976)

Born in 1949, John Banaszak served in the United States Marine Corps before embarking on his football journey. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1968, his raw strength and unwavering determination quickly caught the eye of coaches. Banaszak developed into a dominant defensive end, anchoring the Steelers' defensive line alongside future Hall of Famers like Mean Joe Greene. His aggressive style of play, bordering on brutality at times, disrupted opposing offenses and instilled fear in quarterbacks. Banaszak's relentless pursuit and ability to pressure the passer were instrumental in the Steelers' rise to prominence.

-Dominant Play, Questionable Tactics (1968-1976)

While Banaszak's on-field dominance was undeniable, his aggressive style often crossed the line. He was known for his frequent penalties and borderline dirty plays, drawing criticism and fostering a reputation as a villain. His most infamous incident involved a helmet-to-helmet hit that sidelined a Cincinnati Bengals running back for the rest of the season. These controversies cast a shadow over his achievements and sparked debates about sportsmanship within the game.

-A Champion Despite Controversy (1974-1976)

Despite the controversy, Banaszak's contributions to the Steelers' success were undeniable. He was a key component of the Steel Curtain defense, a unit that revolutionized defensive strategy and terrorized opposing teams throughout the 1970s. Banaszak played a vital role in the Steelers' Super Bowl victories in IX and X, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level on the biggest stage.

-A Life Beyond Football (1976-Present Day)

Following his retirement in 1976, Banaszak transitioned into coaching and various business ventures. He has largely remained out of the public spotlight in recent years.