​The Pittsburgh Steelers have mourned a member of their Super Bowl XIV championship squad with the news that former first-round running back Greg Hawthorne has died. Hawthorne’s family shared the heartbreaking update on Facebook on Thursday, asking fans and supporters to keep his mother, his children, and his siblings in their prayers. No cause of death was disclosed in the family’s post.
Hawthorne, who was selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft, spent five seasons in Pittsburgh. During his NFL career, he contributed to the Steelers’ success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, helping the team reach the pinnacle with a Super Bowl XIV victory. After leaving Pittsburgh, Hawthorne continued his professional football career with the New England Patriots, where he played from 1984 to 1986, and then with the Indianapolis Colts in 1987, concluding his time in the league.
Though his time with the Steelers ended decades ago, Hawthorne’s legacy remains embedded in the franchise’s history and in the memories of Steelers fans. “Once a Steeler, always a Steeler” is a sentiment that fans and the organization alike echo when remembering players who contributed to the team’s traditions and achievements. Hawthorne’s passing is a reminder of the lasting impact he had on those who watched him play and the teammates who shared the field with him.
The Steelers organization and their supporters extend their thoughts and prayers to Hawthorne’s family during this profoundly difficult period. Losing a former champion is a moment of reflection for those who lived through Hawthorne’s era and for the broader football community that witnessed his contributions on the field.
For ongoing Steelers coverage, including updates on offseason moves and other news, fans can follow The Steelers Wire on X at @TheSteelersWire and visit the team’s Facebook page for updates. This report on Hawthorne’s passing originally appeared on Steelers Wire as part of their coverage of former Steelers Super Bowl XIV champion Greg Hawthorne’s death at age 69.