Greg Hawthorne, Steelers Super Bowl Champion, Dies at 69

Greg Hawthorne, a prominent running back who was part of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Super Bowl XIV championship team, has passed away at the age of 69. His family shared the somber news on social media, marking the end of a notable NFL career that spanned several teams.

A Super Bowl Rookie

Hawthorne entered the league with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who drafted him as the 28th overall pick in the 1979 NFL Draft. He hailed from Fort Worth Polytechnic and quickly made an impact. As a rookie, he was a member of the Steelers squad that triumphed over the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl XIV, securing his place in NFL history during his very first season.

The Hawthorne family released a statement detailing their loss: “On behalf of the Hawthorne family, it is with deep sadness that our brother Gregory Dale Hawthorne passed away last night,” the post read. “Please keep his mother and his children, his brother and sisters as well as the whole family in your prayers.” The specific cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Career Statistics and Versatility

Throughout his five years with the Steelers, Hawthorne demonstrated considerable versatility, playing both running back and wide receiver. He participated in 59 games for the team, accumulating 522 rushing yards and scoring seven rushing touchdowns. His contributions extended to the passing game as well, with 55 receptions for 710 yards and three touchdown catches.

Hawthorne’s NFL journey didn’t end in Pittsburgh. He went on to play three seasons with the New England Patriots and concluded his career with a single season for the Indianapolis Colts. During his time with the Patriots, he made a pivotal play in the 1985 AFC Championship game. On the opening kickoff of the second half, Hawthorne recovered a crucial fumble, a moment that helped propel New England to victory and secure their berth in Super Bowl XX.

Enduring NFL Legacy

By the end of his professional football career, Greg Hawthorne had appeared in a total of 105 games. He amassed 11 touchdowns and gained 1,639 yards from scrimmage across his stints with the Steelers, Patriots, and Colts. His ability to contribute on both offense and special teams, highlighted by his clutch fumble recovery, underscored his value as a player in the league.

Hawthorne’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and former teammates. His contributions to the Steelers’ Super Bowl victory and his impactful plays throughout his career cement his legacy as a memorable figure in NFL history.