
Michael Robert Wagner
American football player (Pittsburgh Steelers safety)
- Lifespan
- June 22, 1949 – February 18, 2026Jun 22, 1949 – Feb 18, 2026
- Location
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USAPittsburgh, PA

American football player (Pittsburgh Steelers safety)
Michael Robert Wagner, a revered safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a cornerstone of their legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, passed away on February 18, 2026, at the age of 76. Wagner was an integral part of the Steelers dynasty that captured four Super Bowl championships in the 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport. His toughness, consistency, and keen ability to make crucial plays defined his decade-long career in the National Football League.
Born in Waukegan, Illinois, on June 22, 1949, Wagner honed his football skills at Carmel High School in Mundelein before excelling at Western Illinois University. There, he earned NAIA All-American status in 1969, showcasing the talent that would soon catch the eye of NFL scouts. His collegiate achievements led to his induction into the Western Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame in 1976.
Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft, Wagner quickly transitioned from a potential wide receiver to a formidable safety, becoming an immediate starter. He played all 10 of his professional seasons with the Steelers, appearing in 119 games and starting 116. Wagner's contributions were vital to the team's unprecedented success, including victories in Super Bowls IX, X, XIII, and XIV.
Throughout his career, Wagner was recognized for his exceptional playmaking. He tied for the NFL lead with eight interceptions in 1973, earning First-team All-Pro honors that same year. He was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection in 1975 and 1976. His 36 career interceptions rank sixth in Steelers franchise history, a testament to his ball-hawking prowess.
Following his retirement from professional football in 1981, Wagner remained connected to the Pittsburgh community. He pursued further education, earning an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh's Katz Graduate School of Business, and later embarked on a career in the financial industry, becoming a bank vice president in Pittsburgh. He also served as a defensive backs coach at Pine-Richland High School in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania. In 2020, his enduring legacy was honored with his induction into the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor.
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The guy was NEVER out of position or fooled by gadget plays. Like other Steelers from tbe 70s, what he lacked physically was made up 10x over with brains, instinct and drive. Thanks for Thrills Rest in Peace
Mike and I were teammates at Western Illinois for two years. One of the greatest people I have ever met. We talked occasionally and I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers are with his Family. Ron J Wilson WIU 1970
Mike and i were teamates and friends at WIU. A great football player and better person. In 69 his jr yr we led the country in rushing defense for much of the year, in great part DUE to mike s ability to close down so many wide runs, not to mention his 10 INT's. During his long illness we talked at least every month and he faught it with incredible strength and courage. RIP MIKE RON COMM
What a sad moment to lose a person with such character. I became friends with Mike when he came over Bob Kohrs home who was also a Pittsburgh Steeler and lived next door to me. Always hadf a smile and pleasant to be with him. He definitely will be missed.. REST IN PEACE MIKE. Myron Watzman
Mike was a Theta Chi at WIU and I was a little sister. He was such a nice person. So sad at his passing. I haven’t seen him since the middle 80’s when he came to Atlanta to play the Falcons. In my prayers Michael. Rest in Peace 😢
The guy was NEVER out of position or fooled by gadget plays. Like other Steelers from tbe 70s, what he lacked physically was made up 10x over with brains, instinct and drive. Thanks for Thrills Rest in Peace
Mike and I were teammates at Western Illinois for two years. One of the greatest people I have ever met. We talked occasionally and I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers are with his Family. Ron J Wilson WIU 1970
Mike and i were teamates and friends at WIU. A great football player and better person. In 69 his jr yr we led the country in rushing defense for much of the year, in great part DUE to mike s ability to close down so many wide runs, not to mention his 10 INT's. During his long illness we talked at least every month and he faught it with incredible strength and courage. RIP MIKE RON COMM
What a sad moment to lose a person with such character. I became friends with Mike when he came over Bob Kohrs home who was also a Pittsburgh Steeler and lived next door to me. Always hadf a smile and pleasant to be with him. He definitely will be missed.. REST IN PEACE MIKE. Myron Watzman
Mike was a Theta Chi at WIU and I was a little sister. He was such a nice person. So sad at his passing. I haven’t seen him since the middle 80’s when he came to Atlanta to play the Falcons. In my prayers Michael. Rest in Peace 😢