Andy Russell Obituary, Death – Andy Russell, the former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker, passed away at the age of 82. The news was initially reported by WTAE on Friday morning. Throughout his career from 1963 to 1976, Russell achieved remarkable success. He was a two-time Super Bowl champion, a seven-time Pro Bowler, and received four All-Pro nods. As a 16th-round pick from Missouri, Russell was one of the few players who remained with the Steelers when Chuck Noll took over as head coach in 1969. His contributions were instrumental in securing victories in Super Bowls IX and X.
Despite missing the 1964-65 season due to military service in Germany, Russell started in 162 games. He recorded 18 interceptions for 238 return yards and a touchdown, along with 38 sacks. Notably, he never missed a game in high school, college, or the NFL while actively on the roster, showcasing his unwavering commitment.
Although he is not yet in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Russell was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Honor in 2017. He was also named to the Steelers’ 50th and 75th anniversary teams. Additionally, he was recognized as the 1989 Big Brothers and Sisters Man of the Year for his philanthropic efforts, raising over $5 million for the Russell Family Foundation, which supports Children’s Hospital and cancer research.
Joe Greene, a Steelers legend, advocated for Russell’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Greene emphasized Russell’s pivotal role in transforming the Steelers into a successful organization and paving the way for future triumphs.
“Andy Russell was there when we were the Steelers… you know, the team that everybody could beat. Andy suffered through some terrible years,” Greene stated in 2018, highlighting Russell’s significance as a linebacker.