Former Pittsburgh Steelers operating again Mike Collier died in Maryland on Sunday, in keeping with a web based obituary.
Collier, who gained Tremendous Bowl X with the Steelers in 1975, was 71 years outdated. No reason for dying was introduced.
“It used to seem like a dream,” he instructed the Baltimore Solar in 2013 of his time within the professionals. “I realize that a lot of people would love to have been in my position. I thank God that He gave me the opportunity to be there.”
Collier performed at Morgan State College in Baltimore earlier than he was chosen by the defending-champion Steelers within the 14th spherical of the 1975 NFL Draft as a operating again — although he was extra generally known as a kick returner in school.
“All I asked for was a chance,” Collier recalled in 2014. “Being in the NFL and having that chance was the greatest thing. Luckily, there were six preseason games then. A couple guys got hurt – nothing too serious but it gave me a chance to play and prove myself.”
In his first common season recreation, Collier scored a seven-yard landing in a 37-0 rout of the Chargers. It was one in all three touchdowns through the season.
The Steelers repeated as AFC champions, organising a traditional showdown with the Cowboys in Tremendous Bowl X.
“We had the best preparer in the game in Chuck Noll,” Collier mentioned in 2014. “He was the best at making us ready to win a championship. He never got enough credit.”
“You always hear people talking about [Bill] Belichick and other guys as the greatest coaches. You rarely hear about Noll. That upsets me greatly. He was one of the greatest coaches ever in that timeframe.”
Within the fourth quarter with the Steelers trailing 10-9, Collier returned a free kick 25 yards to set Pittsburgh up in Dallas territory.
The Steelers kicked a go-ahead discipline purpose on the following drive en path to the championship win.
Collier spent three seasons within the NFL as accidents shortened his profession. He performed for the Payments in 1977 and 1979 earlier than he retired from skilled soccer.
Following his enjoying days, he turned a supervisor at Martin’s grocery retailer in Hagerstown, Md. after being unable to discover a instructing job in Baltimore.
Collier was a well-liked determine, signing autographs and letting followers strive on his Tremendous Bowl ring. He loved spending time together with his household and watching soccer, his obituary learn.
He would additionally assist elevate cash for native charities.
“I try to do everything I can to help people out. You know, I was blessed to be able to play in the NFL and win Super Bowls and be able to help people out that’s what it’s about,” he instructed DC Information Now.
Collier is survived by his spouse Lia, three youngsters and 6 grandchildren.
