Welcome to Steelers Takeaways!

First, can you tell readers how you got started as the Steelers photographer?

I was helping out Harry Homa – the Steelers photographer – in 1980. He passed away in 1985 and the team asked me to take over the position as an independent contractor. In 2000, they made me a full-time employee, At the time I was only one of three of four full-time NFL photographers.

I’ve since gone to four Super Bowls – the Rooneys treated me like family. I have two Super Bowl rings and went to a few AFC Championship games. Some I’d like to forget, some I wouldn’t…

Continue reading “Michael Fabus, Steelers Photographer, 1980-2011”

First, can you let readers know what you are doing with yourself now and how you got started?

Well this winter I finished my first season in the CFL. I played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and really enjoyed myself. There is some really good football being played north of the border.

In 2010, you led the nation in college in touchdowns and rushed for over 1,300 yards for Northern Illinois. What about your running style led to such success?

I think I have a pretty balanced running style. There were times where I was called upon in short yardage early in my career which really helped me become a tough down hill runner. Combining that with my natural one cut running style I think led to a lot of yards and a lot of touch downs. I also like to contribute a lot of success to just knowledge of the game. When you understand your schemes and become familiar with your teammates blocking for you, the game slows down so much.

Continue reading “Chad Spann, Steelers Running Back, 2012”

First, can you  let readers know what you are doing with yourself since you’re time in the NFL?

I am currently working back at my alma mater Oklahoma State University as the Associate Director of Development. I also am the defensive coordinator of the OKC John Marshall Bears where my brother Rashaun is the Head Coach and my other brother Gary is the Secondary Coach. I also do some radio for OSU as well on 107.7 The Franchise.

What was the most difficult part of the transition from the NFL to “regular life” for you, and how did you make that adjustment?

Coming to the realization that you won’t be able to play a game that you have played all your life. Football is different from every other sport in that, once you finish playing, that is really the end. Nobody gets together to play pick-up games or anything like that. It really is the end and it is tough. I struggled with it like most players do, but eventually accepted things and though still tough at times, I have moved on to the next stage of my life and career.

Continue reading “Donovan Woods, Steelers Linebacker, 2008-2009”

Click here for our exclusive podcast with LB Ed Bradley on Burfict, players speaking up for one another, playing hurt, SB IX and much more.

First, can you let readers know what you are ding with yourself now?

Right now – we just had a baby. We have an eight-month year old so I’m busy there. I also am working with my brother in his recruiting company. I haven’t given up completely on the NFL – I’m still working out and keeping everything in order in case things come up on the horizon.

Is it hard being out of the game – especially after you had success working your way on the roster?

It’s pretty tough, I haven’t played this year – sitting back and watching other guys play is hard, especially if you see someone and think you can do it better than they could but I’m at home… I’ve been involved in sports my whole life – it’s an adjustment – life after the NFL. But I am pretty busy with my baby and have been tied up …

Continue reading “Derek Moye, Steelers Wide Receiver, 2012-2014”

First, can you let readers know what you’ve been doing with yourself since your retirement from the NFL?

I own my own construction business – I do additions and renovations – kitchens and baths, that sort of thing. I’ve been building stuff since I was in seventh grade – I always got into it. It progressed over the years. I guess I like taking a pile of sticks and making something out of it!

How hard was it for you, adjusting to life after the NFL? Did the NFL help in your post-career?

It was a big adjustment. You go from having everything done for you to having to do it yourself.  I bought a house in my hometown outside of Pittsburgh though so it was easier being in my hometown.

The NFL offered zero help then. It’s basically, “We don’t want you anymore so goodbye!”

Continue reading “Gregg Garrity, Steelers Wide Receiver, 1983-1984”