Steelers Mourn Passing of Hall of Famer Mike Wagner

The four-time Super Bowl champion was an integral part of the 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:47pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers announced the passing of legendary safety Mike Wagner, who played for the team for 10 seasons and won four Super Bowl titles as a key member of their vaunted 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s. Wagner, who was 76 years old, was a three-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Fame in 2015.

Why it matters

Mike Wagner was a beloved figure in Steelers history, known for his toughness, consistency, and team-first mentality. His contributions to the Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s, which included four Super Bowl championships, cemented his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in franchise history.

The details

Wagner was drafted by the Steelers in the 11th round in 1971 out of Western Illinois. Despite being an unheralded prospect, he immediately carved out a role with his tenacity, even leading the NFL in interceptions in 1973. He retired in 1981 with 36 interceptions and 5 forced fumbles in 119 games. After his playing days, Wagner earned a master's degree in business administration from the University of Pittsburgh and worked in the financial industry, while also spending time as a defensive backs coach at a local high school.

  • Wagner passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 76.
  • He was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Fame in 2015.

The players

Mike Wagner

A legendary safety who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for 10 seasons, winning four Super Bowl titles as a key member of their vaunted 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s. He was a three-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Fame in 2015.

Art Rooney II

The president of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who issued a statement mourning the passing of Mike Wagner and celebrating his contributions to the team's success.

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What they’re saying

“Mike played a key role on our championship teams of the 1970s. As a member of four Super Bowl-winning teams, his toughness and consistency were paramount to our secondary. His contributions on the field were significant, but it was also his steady presence and team-first mentality that truly defined him.”

— Art Rooney II, President, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pittsburgh Steelers)

The takeaway

Mike Wagner's legacy as a Steelers legend and integral part of their dynasty in the 1970s will live on, as the team and its fans mourn the passing of a true champion and beloved member of the organization.