The anchor of the Steel Curtain — Mean Joe Greene's dominance as a defensive tackle made Pittsburgh's 1970s dynasty possible and earned him two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Charles Edward Greene was born in Temple, Texas in 1946. Pittsburgh Steelers selected him fourth overall in the 1969 NFL Draft from North Texas State. Over 13 seasons he became the cornerstone of the Steel Curtain defence — the most dominant defensive unit in NFL history. He won four Super Bowl championships (IX, X, XIII, XIV) and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice (1972, 1974). He was selected to 10 Pro Bowls and named to the NFL 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. He is equally famous for the 1979 Coca-Cola advertisement in which he gives a child his jersey — one of the most celebrated commercials in advertising history.
Super Bowl IX X XIII XIV Champion
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?Career Honours
- Super Bowl IX X XIII XIV Champion
- 2x NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 10x Pro Bowl