Mourning at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Franchise legend Andy Russell has passed away at the age of 82

Sad news from the USA: Steelers legend Andy Russell has passed away at the age of 82. This was confirmed by a source familiar with the situation to the “Action News 4” channel in Pittsburgh. There was initially no information on the cause of death.

The former linebacker was part of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense that won the Super Bowl twice. The Detroit native was selected by the Steelers at number 220 in the 16th round of the 1963 NFL Draft, but initially left the team for the US Army to fulfill commitments he had made during his college days at Missouri.

Russell did not return to the Steelers until 1966 and went on to spend all eleven years of his NFL career with the franchise. He made the Pro Bowl seven times during that time, as well as being named All-Pro and Second-Team All-Pro.

He also made the Steelers’ All-Time Team, Hall of Honor and Hall of Fame.