The Pittsburgh Steelers have lost one of their own after it was announced Wednesday evening that Mike Wagner, former safety for the steel curtain defense, passed away at the age of 76. At the time of this being published no cause of death had been publicly announced.

Current Steelers team president Art Rooney II released the following statement:

“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.

“Mike played a key role on our championship teams of the 1970s. 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.

“On behalf of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family. He will always be remembered as a champion, a great teammate, and a proud member of the Steelers family.”

Wagner’s story in Pittsburgh started when he was drafted as an NAIA All-American at Western Illinois in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft, as the 268th overall pick.

Once he reached the Steelers in 1971, he got a starting safety job as a rookie after an injury opened up a spot. Over the next 10 seasons, he would notch 36 interceptions and earn two Pro Bowl nods while starting for all four Super Bowl teams.

The most famous play on Wagner’s resume very well might have been when he caught the game-sealing interception against Fran Tarkenton and the Minnesota Vikings in the Steeler’s first title game at Super Bowl IX. However, he also recorded another big interception against the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl X.

Wagner retired in 1981 after 10 seasons with Pittsburgh. He was inducted into its Hall of Honor in 2020 and remained in the area for the rest of his life.

It is always difficult to see another member of those legendary defenses leave us, and we are sending positive thoughts and prayers to everyone who might be grieving this loss.