Pittsburgh Steelers Legend Mike Wagner Dies at 76

4-time Super Bowl champion and member of the 'Steel Curtain' defense passes away

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Mike Wagner, a four-time Super Bowl champion safety who was a key part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s, has died at the age of 76. The team announced Wagner's passing on Wednesday, with Steelers President Art Rooney II praising his 'toughness and consistency' that were 'paramount to our secondary' during the team's championship runs.

Why it matters

Wagner was an integral member of one of the most dominant defensive units in NFL history, helping the Steelers win four Super Bowls in the 1970s. His passing marks the end of an era for the iconic 'Steel Curtain' defense that defined the Steelers' dynasty of that decade.

The details

Wagner was selected by the Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft and went on to play his entire 10-year career with the team. He was a two-time Pro Bowler (1975, 1976) and earned first-team All-Pro honors in 1976. Over his career, Wagner recorded 36 interceptions in 119 games played.

  • Wagner was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2020.
  • He passed away on February 19, 2026.

The players

Mike Wagner

A four-time Super Bowl champion safety who was a key member of the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s.

Art Rooney II

The President of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who praised Wagner's 'toughness and consistency' that were crucial to the team's championship success.

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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, President, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pittsburgh Steelers)

“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)

What’s next

The Steelers are expected to hold a memorial service to honor Wagner's legacy and contributions to the team.

The takeaway

Mike Wagner's passing marks the end of an era for the iconic 'Steel Curtain' defense that defined the Pittsburgh Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s. As a four-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowler, Wagner's toughness, consistency, and team-first mentality were crucial to the Steelers' success during that dominant period in franchise history.