Before we head into 2025, a tribute to those #Steelers players who passed away in 2024:
LB Andy Russell (October 29, 1941 – March 1, 2024)
“Of course, as a gung ho player, I remember mistakes I made more accurately than those I made well. I think one of my favorite thing is that I was the Captain for 10 years.”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/andy-russell/
K Allan Watson (November 5, 1942 – March 1, 2024)
He tried out for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1969 and received a contract, later being sent to the Ohio Valley Ironmen of the Continental Football League. After returning to the Steelers in 1970, Watson played through preseason but was ultimately released in favor of Gene Mingo; however, after Mingo struggled late in the season, Watson was re-signed and played in the final four games.
DL Ernie Ruple (October 27, 1945 – June 9, 2024)
Ernest was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2nd round of the 1968 NFL Draft as the 36th overall selection. He played two seasons for the Steelers before returning to his alma mater as an assistant football coach before being named head football coach of the Wampus Cats in 1975.
WR Dave Williams (August 10, 1945 – June 19, 2024)
“People ask me if I wish I played today, with all of the money guys are being paid today. I tell them no. The game isn’t what it was supposed to be. The money can be too much of a temptation – you see what many players are going through today. The game was simpler then. It was hard, but it was a terrific game. I’m blessed to have played it then.”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/exclusive-with-former-steelers-wide-receiver-dave-williams-1973/
WR/KR Jacoby Jones (July 11, 1984 – July 14, 2024)
Jones was a Pro Bowler and First-Team All-Pro selection during his first season with Baltimore and starred in the franchise’s Super Bowl title to end that campaign. He was a nine-year NFL veteran, playing with the Texans, Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers and the then San Diego Chargers – now the Los Angeles Chargers.
WR Jerry Simmons (November 14, 1942 – July 25, 2024)
“I was first welcomed by the Rooneys. Then Brady Keys. He was my mentor. He taught me how the game was played. How to act and stay away from trouble and to keep my nose clean”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/exclusive-with-former-steelers-wide-receiver-jerry-simmons-1965-1966/
LB John Campbell (October 7, 1938 – October 21, 2024)
“In my first twelve months as a Steeler I played for three head coaches; Buddy Parker, Mike Nixon, and Bill Austin. So I guess that head coach was also one of the needs. That need was met when Chuck Noll became the head coach ”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/john-campbell-steelers-linebacker-1965-1969/
Equipment Manager Tony Parisi {March 30, 1933-December 5, 2024}
“You mind your own business as an equipment manager. What you hear in the locker room stays there – it’s not anyone else’s business. You can’t be a snitch.”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/exclusive-with-former-steelers-equipment-manager-tony-parisi-1962-1980/
DL Riley Gunnels (August 24, 1937 – December 9, 2024)
“Til this day, I do not know if the Steeler staff knew that I was a more experienced offensive lineman when drafted. Anyway, although I was devastated at being waived, it was a blessing in disguise.”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/riley-gunnels-steelers-defensive-lineman-1965-1966/