Joe Greene
Inducted:
1987
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
275 lb (125 kg)
Born:
September 24, 1946
Elgin, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
Coach
College:
North Texas State (1966–1968)
"Mean" Joe Greene was the foundation of the Pittsburgh Steelers' Steel Curtain defense and one of the most dominant defensive linemen in NFL history. Selected fourth overall in the 1969 NFL Draft, Greene quickly became the emotional and physical leader of a franchise that would rise to greatness. Known for his strength, quickness, and relentless motor, Greene anchored a defense that helped lead the Steelers to four Super Bowl titles in the 1970s.
His presence demanded double-teams, freeing up teammates to shine, and his leadership inspired a dynasty. A 10-time Pro Bowler and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Greene’s legacy extends beyond statistics—he set the tone for one of the most iconic teams in NFL history. Off the field, his famous Coca-Cola commercial made him a cultural icon. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, Greene remains one of the most respected figures to ever play the game.
Greene's Awards and Honors
- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1972, 1974)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1972–1974, 1977, 1979)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1971, 1975, 1976)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1969–1976, 1978, 1979)
NFL Records
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1969)
- NFL Man of the Year (1979)
NFL Teams
As a player:
Pittsburgh Steelers (1969–1981)
As a coach:
Pittsburgh Steelers (1987–1991)
Miami Dolphins (1991–1995)
Arizona Cardinals (1996–2003)
NFL draft:
1969: 1st round, 4th pick
Pittsburgh Steelers
Number Worn:
75
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1969–1981
Games played:
181
Games started:
172
Fumble recoveries:
16
Interceptions:
1
Sacks:
77.5