Don’t believe everything you read online. That’s the lesson many fans are learning about a legendary NFL star from years ago.
“Mean” Joe Greene was the centrepiece of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense in the 1970s, known as the Steel Curtain. As his nickname implies, he was a feared defensive tackle who helped the Steelers capture four Super Bowls.
Rumors were circulating that the Hall of Famer had passed away. The team that he played his entire NFL career with recently addressed that speculation.
Joe Greene is not dead, despite claims online
He may not be the intense and feared man we saw on the field years ago, but Joe is very much alive and well. The Steelers put to bed rumors that he’d died, telling TMZ that speculation was purely a hoax.
When this claim surfaced online, many fans bought it hook, line and sinker, pouring in with emotional tributes for the NFL’s two-time Defensive Player of the Year. In his illustrious 13-year career as a pro, Joe registered 77.5 sacks, 16 fumble recoveries, and one interception. Those numbers saw him earn 10 Pro Bowl selections.
While “Mean” Joe was the Steelers’ star on defense in the 70s, the team was complemented by many incredible performances on offense by quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Joe’s teammate was twice named Super Bowl MVP, with the former a part of those iconic victories. In September, it was estimated that Terry’s net worth was $48 million.
The Steelers haven’t forgotten about the massive contributions Joe made to the community and the team. His No. 75 jersey was previously retired by the club. He was also inducted into their Hall of Fame and Hall of Honor.
Non-football fans may remember him best from a Coca-Cola commercial which aired during Super Bowl XIV in 1980. In the commercial, he’s seen giving a kid his jersey in a stadium tunnel after the youngster gave him a Coke. That ad is considered one of the best commercials of all-time while changing “Mean” Joe’s perception into someone with a big heart.
TELL US – DID YOU BELIEVE THE SPECULATION THAT “MEAN” JOE GREENE HAD DIED?
