Steelers Great Andy Russell, Super Bowl-Winning Linebacker, Dies at 82

The Pittsburgh great ended his career with two championships.

Andy Russell, a former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker who won two Super Bowls with the team, died Thursday night at 82, Action News 4 in Pittsburgh reports.

Russell was drafted by the Steelers in round 16 of the 1963 NFL draft out of Missouri. After a solid rookie season, Russell missed the 1964 and ’65 years to fulfill military commitments, but returned to the team in 1966.

After his return, Russell established himself as a key member of the Steelers’ defense. The linebacker made seven Pro Bowls in his 11-year career, playing in all 14 games during each season of his career. Russell won Super Bowls with Pittsburgh in 1975 and ’76, retiring from the NFL following his second championship.

Former Steelers linebacker Andy Russell died Thursday night at 82 years old :: Philip G. Pavely/USA Today sports

The Steelers awarded Russell two historical honors, naming him to their All-Time Team and their Hall of Honor. Russell is a member of the Pittsburgh Hall of Fame as well. He ended his career with 38 sacks and 18 interceptions over 168 games.