The Pittsburgh Steelers announced the passing of former defensive back Mike Wagner, a vital component of the franchise's legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, at the age of 76. No cause of death was provided.
Steelers owner Art Rooney II expressed deep sadness, calling Wagner a tremendous player integral to the team's 1970s championship success. He highlighted Wagner's toughness, consistency, and team-first mentality across four Super Bowl victories.
Drafted in the 11th round in 1971 from Western Illinois, Wagner's path to the NFL was unconventional. He earned a starting safety role as a rookie and played 10 seasons with Pittsburgh, recording 36 interceptions and two Pro Bowl selections.
Wagner made critical plays in Super Bowls IX and X, including a game-sealing interception in the first title and a key pick against Dallas in the second. He retired in 1981, was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Honor in 2020, and remained in the Pittsburgh area.