American · Temple, USA · Born 24 September 1946Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle and cornerstone of the 'Steel Curtain' defense that won four Super Bowls.
Charles Edward "Mean Joe" Greene was born on 24 September 1946 in Temple, Texas, and played college football at North Texas State (now the University of North Texas), earning consensus All-American honours as a senior for a team whose nickname, the Mean Green, gave rise to his own famous moniker. The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Greene fourth overall in the 1969 NFL Draft, and he won Defensive Rookie of the Year, quickly becoming the cornerstone upon which coach Chuck Noll built the Steelers' dynasty of the 1970s. Greene anchored the legendary "Steel Curtain" defence, winning four Super Bowl championships, and became one of the most recognisable figures in American advertising through his 1979 "Hey Kid, Catch!" Coca-Cola commercial, in which a battered, gruff Greene tosses his jersey to an admiring young fan after accepting a bottle of the soft drink. Greene was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, and went on to a lengthy career as an NFL defensive line coach with the Steelers, Miami Dolphins, and Arizona Cardinals, remaining one of the most beloved and iconic figures in franchise and league history.
Steelers DT, leader of the 'Steel Curtain'
His Coca-Cola commercial — in which he gave his jersey to a young fan — was voted the most popular TV advertisement in American history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Aggressive, disruptive defensive tackle with exceptional strength and intimidating presence
Lasting Impact
Transformed defensive tackle position, key figure in Steelers' 1970s dynasty, cultural icon beyond football
Career Honours
- Pro Football Hall of Fame 1987
- 4x Super Bowl champion
- 2x NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 10x Pro Bowl
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 1969–1981 | 181 |
American Athletes