Ex-Steelers First-Round Pick & Super Bowl Champion Has Tragically Died
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The NFL community is mourning the loss of former Pittsburgh Steelers standout Greg Hawthorne.
Hawthorne, a first-round pick in the 1979 NFL Draft, died at the age of 69. His family announced his passing on social media. They did not reveal a cause of death.
The versatile offensive weapon spent five seasons with the Steelers. He helped the franchise win Super Bowl XIV during his rookie campaign before continuing his career with the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts.
Hawthorne played running back, wide receiver and tight end during his NFL career.
He finished with 527 rushing yards, 1,112 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns across 105 regular-season games. He also appeared in Super Bowl XX with the Patriots before retiring after the 1987 season.
Fans Pay Tribute To Greg Hawthorn, Praise His Talent
News of Hawthorne’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and former teammates.
“Sending prayers to his family!🏈🙏🏼🕊️,” one fan wrote.
Sending prayers to his family!
🏈🙏🏼🕊️— sportsfan🇺🇸 (@hrm4449) July 11, 2026
Another added, “This is sad. Hawthorne was a stud. Built like a stallion. Always thought of him as a secret weapon who could/should have been utilized more. But he’ll be fondly remembered by Steelers fans and a Steeler forever.”
This is sad. Hawthorne was a stud. Built like a stallion. Always thought of him as a secret weapon who could/should have been utilized more. But he’ll be fondly remembered by Steelers fans and a Steeler forever.
— Men Taking CHARGE! (@MenTakingCharge) July 10, 2026
A third commented, “Sorry to hear. He had terrific hands. Would’ve really made an impact in 1983 and 1984 if Bradshaw was the QB.”
Sorry to hear. He had terrific hands. Would’ve really made an impact in 1983 and 1984 if Bradshaw was the QB.
— Todd Reilly (@ToddReilly4) July 10, 2026
Hawthorne starred at Baylor before Pittsburgh selected him with the 28th overall pick in 1979. Although he never became a full-time starter, he earned a reputation for his versatility and willingness to play multiple positions.
His family has asked for prayers during this difficult time as tributes continue to pour in from around the football world.
May he rest in peace.
