Former Steelers DB Mike Wagner, Key Part of Steel Curtain Dynasty, Dies at 76

Wagner was a four-time Super Bowl champion who played a vital role in the Steelers' secondary during their dynasty in the 1970s.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 2:31pm

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Mike Wagner, a former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back who was a key part of the team's Steel Curtain dynasty in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 76. Wagner played 10 seasons with the Steelers, winning four Super Bowl titles, and was known for his toughness, consistency, and team-first mentality in the secondary.

Why it matters

Wagner was an integral part of one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history, helping the Steelers win four Super Bowls in the 1970s. His contributions on the field and as a steady, team-first presence were crucial to the Steelers' success during their dynasty era.

The details

Wagner was drafted by the Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft out of Western Illinois, where he was an NAIA All-American. He earned a starting safety job as a rookie and went on to record 36 interceptions over his 10-year career with the team. Wagner made key plays in two Super Bowl wins, catching the game-sealing interception against the Vikings in Super Bowl IX and recording a crucial pick against the Cowboys in Super Bowl X.

  • Wagner was drafted by the Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft.
  • Wagner played 10 seasons with the Steelers from 1971 to 1981.
  • Wagner won four Super Bowl titles with the Steelers in the 1970s.
  • Wagner was inducted into the Steelers' Hall of Honor in 2020.

The players

Mike Wagner

A former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back who was a key part of the team's Steel Curtain dynasty in the 1970s, winning four Super Bowl titles.

Art Rooney II

The owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who provided a statement honoring Wagner's contributions to the team.

Fran Tarkenton

The Minnesota Vikings quarterback whose game-sealing interception was caught by Wagner in Super Bowl IX.

Roger Staubach

The Dallas Cowboys quarterback whose pass was intercepted by Wagner in Super Bowl X.

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What they’re saying

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mike Wagner, a tremendous player and an integral part of some of the most successful teams in Pittsburgh Steelers history.”

— Art Rooney II, Steelers owner (Pittsburgh Steelers)

“Wagner gambled and won. I didn't see him.”

— Roger Staubach (Pittsburgh Steelers)

The takeaway

Mike Wagner's legacy as a key member of the Steelers' dominant Steel Curtain defense in the 1970s will be remembered for his toughness, consistency, and championship pedigree. His contributions to the team's four Super Bowl titles during that era cemented his place as an integral part of one of the NFL's greatest dynasties.