BE.Steelers Legend Mel Blount Dies at 77: Farewell to the Great Quarterback, Symbol of Strength and Indomitable Spirit on the Field
PITTSBURGH — Family, friends and thousands of fans are remembering and saying goodbye to Pittsburgh Steelers legend MelBlount, who passed away today at his Pittsburgh home at the age of 77.
Born April 10, 1948, in Vidalia, Georgia, Blount started his journey from his family’s farm to become one of the most prominent cornerbacks in NFL history.
He was drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 1970 draft and played 14 seasons with the team (1970–1983).
During that time, Blount won four Super Bowls with the team — IX, X, XIII, and XIV — and was inducted into the ProFootball Hall of Fame in 1989.
His powerful playing style, large frame (6’3”, ~205 lb) and “bump‑and‑run” skills made him a fearsome target for opposing receivers — so much so that the NFL changed the rules to limit the position’s ability to press and make contact.
Blount was not only an icon on the field, but also a role model for hard work. Coming from a poor farming family, he overcame all odds to reach the top.
Blount’s family announced that a memorial service will be held in Pittsburgh next week, attended by many of his former teammates, and he will be buried next to the places where he spent his many years. in Pennsylvania.
“Mel showed us that nothing is impossible when you put your heart, your drive and your passion into it. Today, we bid farewell to a true hero,” a Steelers spokesman said.
