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 and integral part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' legendary 'Steel Curtain' defense in the 1970s, has died at the age of 76. Wagner played his entire 10-year NFL career with the Steelers, reaching the Pro Bowl in 1975 and 1976 and earning All-Pro honors in 1976. He finished his career with 36 interceptions over 119 games.

Why it matters

Wagner was a key member of the Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s, helping the team win four Super Bowl titles during that dominant era. As part of the 'Steel Curtain' defense, he played a crucial role in establishing the Steelers as one of the NFL's premier franchises and most fearsome teams.

The details

Wagner was selected by the Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft and went on to become a stalwart in their secondary. He started 119 games for the Steelers over his 10-year career, recording 36 interceptions. Wagner was a vital part of the Steelers' championship teams, winning Super Bowls IX, X, XIII, and XIV.

  • Wagner was drafted by the Steelers in 1971.
  • He reached the Pro Bowl in 1975 and 1976.
  • Wagner earned All-Pro honors in 1976.
  • He won 4 Super Bowl titles with the Steelers between 1974-1979.
  • Wagner retired from the NFL after the 1980 season.

The players

Mike Wagner

A 4-time Super Bowl champion safety who played his entire 10-year NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reaching the Pro Bowl in 1975 and 1976 and earning All-Pro honors in 1976.

Art Rooney II

The President of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who released a statement mourning the passing of Mike Wagner and praising his contributions to the team's championship teams of the 1970s.

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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 (Instagram)

“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 (Instagram)

The takeaway

Mike Wagner's passing marks the end of an era for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as he was a key member of the team's legendary 'Steel Curtain' defense that dominated the NFL in the 1970s. His four Super Bowl championships and steady, team-first leadership cemented his legacy as one of the greatest Steelers of all time.