Jack Ham
Inducted:
1988
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
225 lb (102 kg)
Born:
December 23, 1948
Johnstown, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Penn State (1968–1970)
Jack Ham is regarded as one of the finest outside linebackers in NFL history, celebrated for his intelligence, speed, and consistency during the Pittsburgh Steelers’ dynasty years. Drafted in 1971, Ham quickly earned a starting role and became a cornerstone of the famed “Steel Curtain” defense. Unlike many linebackers of his era who relied solely on brute force, Ham excelled in coverage, reading plays with precision and shutting down both the run and pass.
Over 12 seasons, he played in 162 games and helped lead the Steelers to four Super Bowl championships in the 1970s. Ham was selected to eight consecutive Pro Bowls and named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1970s. Known for his discipline, he was penalized only once in his career, a testament to his control and technique. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988, Ham’s legacy as a smart, versatile, and dependable linebacker remains central to Pittsburgh’s championship era.
Ham's Awards and Honors
- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1974–1979)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1973, 1980)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1973–1980)
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
NFL Records
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Fewest penalties by a linebacker with over 150 career games
- Among the all-time leaders in interceptions by a linebacker (32)
NFL Teams
Pittsburgh Steelers (1971–1982)
NFL Draft:
1971: 2nd round, 34th pick
Pittsburgh Steelers
Number Worn:
59
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1971–1982)
Games Played:
162
Interceptions:
32
Sacks:
25
Fumble Recoveries:
21
Touchdowns:
2