"The Football Town" Celebrates Western Pennsylvania's Football Legacy

NFL Films documentary captures the region's deep roots in football, steel, and community

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:23am

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A new NFL Films documentary called "The Football Town" explores the rich history and culture of western Pennsylvania's connection to football. The film, made in partnership with VisitPITTSBURGH, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and U.S. Steel, captures the region's deep ties to the sport, its manufacturing heritage, and the tight-knit communities that have been shaped by both. Narrated by Pittsburgh native Pat McAfee, the film showcases the grit, loyalty, and exceptionalism of the area, providing a unique window into the factors that have made this region a hotbed for football talent and success.

Why it matters

Western Pennsylvania's football tradition is deeply intertwined with the region's industrial history and community values. The film highlights how the steel industry, Friday night high school games, and the beloved Pittsburgh Steelers have all contributed to forging the area's distinct identity and character. By exploring this connection, the documentary provides insights into the factors that have made the region such a consistent producer of football talent and passionate fan base.

The details

"The Football Town" was filmed over a single weekend last October, capturing the energy and excitement of multiple Friday night high school football games across the region. The film delves into the history of the area, tracing back to George Washington's time as a young surveyor and military officer. It also showcases the iconic U.S. Steel Tower in downtown Pittsburgh and the Edgar Thomson Works mill in Braddock, highlighting the region's manufacturing legacy. The documentary features interviews with local figures like Clairton High School football coach Wayne Wade Jr., who has won multiple championships, underscoring the deep community ties to the sport.

  • The film was made in the leadup to the 2026 NFL Draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh.
  • It will exclusively play at the Kamin Science Center for two months leading up to the draft, from April 23 through 25, 2026.

The players

Pat McAfee

A Pittsburgh native and former NFL punter who narrates the documentary with an authentic Appalachian twang.

Wayne Wade Jr.

The head football coach at Clairton High School, who has won multiple WPIAL and PIAA championships, embodying the heart of the film's message.

Charlie Batch

A former Pittsburgh Steelers player who was part of a Steelers Super Bowl championship team and praised the filmmakers for capturing the essence of the region.

VisitPITTSBURGH

The tourism organization that partnered with NFL Films, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and U.S. Steel to produce the documentary.

U.S. Steel

The steel company that has been a vital part of the region's industrial heritage and is featured prominently in the film.

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What they’re saying

“There's something in the water. That's what people say about western Pennsylvania. It's a metaphor, but it's true here. The rivers are the source of life. They were here before, man. They brought man here and they will outlast man in his grand designs.”

— Pat McAfee, Narrator

“This isn't just any football town. It's the football town.”

— Pat McAfee, Narrator

“Grit is what made football great here.”

— Pat McAfee, Narrator

“There is no other place in the country that can do all of that with the skills and work ethic legacy.”

— Charlie Batch, Former Pittsburgh Steelers player

“The film exemplifies the dedication to hard work, how kids from places like Clairton can aspire for a better life in football or a good job at the mill; both are the fabrics of our lives and form our community. Heck, that is the strength of our community.”

— Wayne Wade Jr., Clairton High School Football Coach

What’s next

The feature film will exclusively play at the Kamin Science Center for two months leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh from April 23 through 25.

The takeaway

"The Football Town" captures the deep-rooted connection between western Pennsylvania's football tradition, industrial heritage, and tight-knit community spirit. The documentary provides a unique window into the factors that have made this region a consistent producer of football talent and passionate fan base, showcasing the grit, loyalty, and exceptionalism that define the area.