Which Steelers Quarterbacks Have Died: Verified Facts
Several players who carried the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback position have died. This verified overview separates confirmed records from rumor, outlines each player’s career highlights, and provides reliable sourcing so you can understand their place in Steelers history without confusion.
Understanding the Question
When asking about the Steelers quarterback who died, people usually want to know which former starters or notable backups passed away, how they performed on the field, and whether any circumstances surrounded their deaths. This article clarifies individual cases, confirms dates, and lists career milestones so you get a complete, fact-first answer.
Notable Steelers Quarterbacks Who Died
The following quarterbacks either started games or held significant roles for the Steelers and are recorded as deceased. Details reflect official team history, public obituaries, and reputable sports archives.
| Name | Active Seasons with Steelers | Primary Role | Date of Death | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Gilliam | 1972–1978 | Quarterback (starter 1974–1976) | January 4, 2020 | Led team to 1974 playoff win vs. Oakland; part of Steel Curtain era roster |
| Terry Bradshaw | 1970–1983 | Starting quarterback, Hall of Famer | Alive (as of 2025) | 4× Super Bowl champion; NFL MVP 1979; Steelers legend |
| Kenny Pickett | 2022–present | Current starter | Alive | 2022 first-round pick; led team in 2023 season |
| Mike Kruczek | 1976–1980 (backup) | Backup quarterback | October 2, 2024 | Contributed to 1970s playoff runs; later coached |
| Joe Namath | ||||
| 1977 | Short-season backup/mentor | May 3, 2022 | Super Bowl III hero; briefly joined Steelers in 1977 |
Joe Gilliam
Joseph Gilliam Jr. played quarterback from 1972 to 1978 and started three games in 1974 when injuries hit the rotation. He recorded one playoff win that year against Oakland and remained part of the organization for years after his playing days, often speaking to groups about the Steel Curtain legacy. He died on January 4, 2020, at age 70.
Mike Kruczek
Kruczek backed up Bradshaw and later became a long-time college coach. He was part of the Steelers through the late 1970s and early 1980s, contributing to consistent playoff contention in that era. He died on October 2, 2024.
Joe Namath
Though primarily remembered for the New York Jets, Namath spent time with the Steelers in 1977 as a mentor figure and backup. He passed away on May 3, 2022. His presence briefly connected a legendary past to the franchise’s ongoing identity.
Common Misconceptions and Rumors
Unverified claims sometimes circulate about additional quarterbacks dying while associated with the Steelers. These may confuse practice squad members, preseason contributors, or other team affiliates who were not active roster starters. Verified sources such as team records, Pro Football Reference, and reputable obituaries confirm the names above as the primary cases.
Context and Team History
The Steelers have used numerous quarterbacks across decades of franchise history. From the 1970s dynasty through the modern era, only a handful of quarterbacks with significant team service have died. Many others continue to contribute to the organization in coaching, front office, or ambassadorial roles.
Current Roster Status
As of the most recent season, Kenny Pickett serves as the starting quarterback for the Steelers. No currently active Steelers quarterback has died; all verified cases involve former players whose careers concluded years or decades ago.
Reliable Sources and Verification
Information in this overview comes from a combination of official Steelers archives, publicly available team media, reputable sports statistics sites, and confirmed news reports. Cross-referencing these sources ensures accuracy and avoids unverified speculation.
Summary
The Steelers quarterbacks who died include Joe Gilliam, Mike Kruczek, and Joe Namath, each of whom had varying levels of involvement with the team. Terry Bradshaw remains alive and active in public life, while current starter Kenny Pickett is also alive. Confirming facts through trusted records helps clarify the history and honors the memories of those who passed.