Two standout defensive stars from the 1970s “Super Steelers” — lineman L.C. Greenwood and linebacker Andy Russell — are among 60 former NFL players from previous eras who have advanced in the voting for consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025.
This year, the Hall of Fame introduced a Seniors Screening Committee, whose members voted for 50 individuals from an initial list of 182 nominees announced last week. Among the former Steelers who did not make it to the final 60 (which includes ties for the top 50) were Mike Wagner, Byron “Whizzer” White, and Norm Johnson.
A separate nine-person Seniors Blue-Ribbon Committee will further reduce the list, ultimately selecting three players to be considered for induction next year.
L.C. Greenwood is often regarded as the best Steelers player. He has four Super Bowl rings but has yet to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame. A key member of the legendary Steel Curtain defensive line, Greenwood recorded 78 sacks over his 13-year career, all with the Steelers. He was a two-time AP NFL All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler. Greenwood passed away in 2013 at the age of 67.
Andy Russell, who died in March at 82, was a cornerstone of the Steelers before Chuck Noll arrived in 1969. A seven-time Pro Bowler, Russell’s career with the Steelers spanned from 1963-76. He was part of the team’s first two Super Bowl victories after the 1974 and 1975 seasons, including scoring a touchdown on a fumble recovery during a 1975 playoff game.
