Joe Greene
Steel Curtain (1972-76) · 1972–1976
Greene's elite Peak Dominance (96) and elite Toughness (95) define this era.
Scouting Report
Position ratings · 0-99 scale · Based on career data
Trophy Case
1972, 1974
2× DPOY — the cornerstone of the greatest defense in NFL history
1975, 1976, 1979, 1980
Four titles with the Steel Curtain — anchor of the greatest defense ever
1969
Immediate impact — 'Mean Joe' became the Steel Curtain's foundation
1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1978, 1979
10 selections — 'Mean Joe' anchored the Steel Curtain
1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1977
5 selections — 'Mean Joe' anchored the greatest defense ever
Signature Moments
The Coca-Cola Commercial — "Hey Kid, Catch!"
Mean Joe Greene limped down a stadium tunnel. A kid offered him a Coke. Greene drank it, then tossed the kid his jersey. It was the most famous commercial in NFL history and one of the most iconic TV ads ever made.
The Coca-Cola ad made Mean Joe Greene a household name beyond football. The scariest player became America's gentle giant.
Four Super Bowl Rings — The Steel Curtain Anchor
Greene won four Super Bowls as the anchor of the Steel Curtain defense — the most feared defensive line in NFL history. The Steelers dynasty was built on his back.
Four rings. The Steel Curtain started with Mean Joe Greene. He was the foundation of the greatest defense of the 1970s.
Career Numbers
Career Sacks
Unofficial — sacks not tracked until 1982
77.5
Solo Tackles
Very incomplete records — pre-stat era
77
Fumble Recoveries
16
Super Bowl Record
Steel Curtain dynasty
4-0
Pro Bowl Selections
10
Games Played
13 seasons
181
Season Stats · Steel Curtain (1972-76)
Engine Attributes
Fan Debate
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