Established
1983
City
Pittsburgh
League History
1983 – 1984, 2022 - Present / United States Football League
Team History
1983 – 1984, 2022 - Present / Pittsburgh Maulers
Nickname
Maulers – The Pittsburgh Maulers are one of the most beloved teams in the history of professional football. The team was part of the United States Football League (USFL), which operated from 1983 to 1985. While they may not have been around for long, their legacy remains today, with many fans remembering them fondly. But do you know where their unique nickname came from?
It turns out that there is an interesting story behind how this team got its name! According to legend, it all started when a group of local businessmen discussed potential names for the new franchise, and someone suggested "Maulers." Everyone in attendance met This suggestion with enthusiasm as it represented strength and tenacity - two qualities needed to succeed in a competitive league like USFL.
The name also had ties back home as Pittsburgh has always been known as “the Steel City” due to its rich history of producing steel products over generations. It seemed only fitting then that a team representing this city should take on such an apt moniker that encapsulates hard work, determination, and grit!
Ultimately, these qualities helped propel them forward during their short-lived tenure within USFL - although ultimately, it wasn't enough for them to stay afloat after three seasons playing together under this banner before folding up shop at season's end in 1985. Nevertheless, even though they're no longer active, we can still look back fondly upon what could have been had things gone differently by reflecting upon why exactly they chose "Maulers" as their official handle: To represent everything great about being tough yet determined while proudly wearing your hometown colors!
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium/Legion Field (Birmingham, Alabama)
1983 – 1984 / Three Rivers Stadium
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1983 – 1984 / Edward J. DeBartolo, Sr.
- 1983
- 1984
- 2022
- 2022
- 2023
-
Maulers Team Formation
No one was surprised when two groups filed for a Pittsburgh franchise in the winter of 1983. It did come as a considerable surprise that DeBartolo, Sr. was one of them, given his son’s ownership of the 49ers. However, while the other group contented itself withholding a rally to demonstrate support for a potential franchise, DeBartolo stole a march by ... -
The Maulers fold after one season
In 1984: The Maulers fold after one season due to financial losses and competition with the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers . -
The Re-Formation of the Maulers
The Philadelphia Stars were one of eight teams that were officially announced as a USFL franchise on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on November 22, 2021. On January 6, 2022, It was announced on The Herd with Colin Cowherd that former CFL Head coach Bart Andrus was named the Head coach and General manager of the Stars. Andrus later announced ... -
Kirby Wilson as team head coach and general manager
On January 20, 2022: The Maulers name former NFL running backs coach Kirby Wilson as their head coach and general manager. -
The Maulers name Ray Horton as their new head coach
On January 17, 2023: The Maulers name Ray Horton as their new head coach, replacing Kirby Wilson who stepped down for personal reasons.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
History of the Maulers
The Pittsburgh Maulers of the United States Football League (USFL) were one of the most beloved teams in sports history. The team was founded in 1982 and played its home games at Three Rivers Stadium until 1985 when it folded with the rest of the USFL. Although they only lasted three seasons, they left an indelible mark on football fans everywhere.
The Maulers had a very successful run, making two appearances in championship games and finishing second overall twice during that span. They also boasted some big names, such as future NFL Hall-of-Famers Mike Mularkey and Reggie White, who helped lead them to these successes on both sides. Additionally, legendary coach Jim Mora Sr., who would later achieve success coaching several NFL teams, including New Orleans Saints from 1986–1996, was hired by Pittsburgh before the 1984 season but never got a chance to coach due to league folding after his first year there.
Despite this short tenure, many former players still hold fond memories of what could have been if it wasn't for unfortunate circumstances that led to the league's demise. As a result, 2022 marks the 40th anniversary of its inception. Hence, it's no surprise that the city is planning special events throughout the year commemorating the team’s legacy while allowing the current generation to learn more about the club’s storied past. From reunions featuring all-star cast alumni, players coach alike, and commemorative merchandise being sold locally in stores or online - it looks like Steel City will be celebrating the proud tradition set by the original Pittsburgher Mauler squad well into the foreseeable future!
Sports Fan Products
Accomplishments
Averaged 22,858 fans (60,043 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history