One of the most underappreciated Steelers of all time is Mike Webster.
In this article, and in future articles, I will take us on a trip into the past to highlight underrated, fan favorite, and/or Hall of Famers who have come through the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise. The first man in this series is Hall of Famer, NFL symbol, and one of the most underappreciated players from this team – Mike Webster.
Early life leads to a historic career.
Mike grew up on a farm in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. He played high school football with his coach driving him to and from school every day to ensure he would be back in time to get his chores done. He was regarded as the best Center in the Big 10 during his years in college.
Mike Webster enters the NFL in a historic way.
The 6-foot-1 inch 255-pound Center from the University of Wisconsin-Madison was drafted in the 5th round of the historic 1974 draft. The Steelers pulled off the greatest draft in the history of the NFL in 1974 by drafting Hall of Famers Lynn Swann, Jack Lambert, John Stallworth, and Mike Webster. These four NFL greats would lead the Steelers on an epic four Superbowl wins through the 1970s.
His time with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Webster played fifteen seasons with the Steelers before finishing his final two years in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs. During his great stretch with the Steelers, he snagged nine Pro Bowl awards – four of which came in Superbowl winning seasons. “Iron Mike” was an outstanding blocker, keeping Terry Bradshaw‘s jersey clean and opening up holes for another Hall of Famer, Franco Harris, to run through.
A life taken too soon.
By the time Mike’s epic career was over, he had been plagued with constant concussions and other injuries. After retirement Mike began suffering with dementia, amnesia, and depression. At age 50, Mike passed away from a heart attack in the hospital surrounded by family. He had been previously diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE which is said to of led to his deteriorating life and eventual death. Mike Webster is now a symbol of head injuries in the NFL and will forever be used as an example that players safety is number one.
His legacy will forever be engraved in Steelers history.
Mike “Iron Mike” Webster finished his decorated NFL career with four Superbowl wins, five all pro selections, and nine pro bowls. The Steelers have since retired the number 52. In 1999 Webster was ranked by Sporting News List as the 75th greatest player in NFL history. Perhaps one of his greatest achievements, however, came after his passing – with helping NFL player safety and understanding the impacts football has with head injuries.
