The passing of Mike Wagner, former Pittsburgh Steelers safety, was announced this past Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The former Steelers standout was 74 years old.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mike Wagner, a tremendous player and an integral part of some of the most successful teams in Pittsburgh Steelers history,” the organization stated in a release shared via social media.
A consummate professional in Pittsburgh
Wagner primarily served as a defensive back throughout the 1970s. A native of Waukegan, Illinois, and a 1967 graduate of Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, he played collegiately for the Western Illinois Leathernecks. During his tenure at Western Illinois, he earned NAIA All-American honors in 1969 and was subsequently inducted into the university’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 1976.
Wagner entered the NFL in 1971 as an 11th-round draft pick, selected 268th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Though initially drafted as a wide receiver, he was quickly transitioned to the safety position. By 1973, Wagner had become a vital component of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense, co-leading the NFL that season with eight interceptions.
A two-time Pro Bowl selection (1975, 1976), Wagner’s career statistics remain a testament to his defensive prowess. Over ten seasons, he recorded 36 interceptions and 12 fumble recoveries. Crucially, he was a member of all four Super Bowl-winning teams of the era, recording interceptions in both Super Bowl IX and Super Bowl X. He retired in 1981 following a decade of sustained excellence.
Life after the gridiron
Following his retirement from professional football, Wagner shared his expertise as a cornerbacks coach at Pine-Richland High School in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania.
An accounting major in college, Wagner leveraged his academic background to build a successful second career in the financial sector. He pursued further education, earning an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. Since 2012, he has served as a vice president for a prominent bank in Pittsburgh.
A lasting legacy in the NFL
Beyond his statistical achievements, Wagner’s impact on the franchise is immortalized through numerous accolades.
- In addition to his league-leading performance in 1973,
- He was named to the Steelers’ 50th Anniversary Team
- Is a member of both the Steelers Hall of Honor and the Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Mike Wagner was undoubtedly a titan of his position and a historical figure within the Steelers’ defensive lore. He is remembered fondly today by those who witnessed his mastery on the field and by a new generation of fans who recognize his enduring contributions to the franchise’s storied history.
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