Former Pittsburgh Steelers Star Turned Broadcaster Has Tragically Died
A former player and broadcaster for the Pittsburgh Steelers has passed away. Craig Wolfey, who spent 10 years as an offensive lineman with the team, is dead at the age of 66.
Wolfey was selected by the Steelers as a fifth-round pick in 1980 and stayed with the team until his final year. He went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings in 1991.
The erstwhile offensive guard was a star at Syracuse, where he was a third-team All-American on two occasions. After his retirement, he became a broadcaster and sideline reporter, covering Steelers games for 102.5 WDVE.
The AFC North outfit has put out a statement in the wake of his passing, expressing deep sadness over the death of someone described as “a beloved member of the Steelers family.”
“His work ethic and commitment to excellence were felt both in the locker room and on the field, and his leadership was always evident,” owner Art Rooney wrote.
Craig Wolfey And Another Former Steelers Teammate Were Huge Fan Favorites In Pittsburgh
Craig Wolfey and former teammate Tunch Ilkin, also drafted in 1980, were favorites among Steelers fans after teaming up as reporters following their careers on the field and running a radio show together.
Wolfey replaced Ilkin as the team’s radio color commentator after the latter passed away in 2021. Another ex-Steeler, Max Starks, replaced Ilkin on Wolfey’s show when he died.
“His passionate voice and deep understanding of the game made him a trusted figure for Steelers fans, and his humor, warmth, and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on our community,” Rooney added.
Craig Wolfey competed in several other sports, including weightlifting, boxing, sumo wrestling, and martial arts, as a younger man, also holding a black belt in jiu-jitsu. He placed fifth in the ‘World’s Strongest Man’ contest in 1981.
TPS extends condolences to Wolfey’s family, friends, and loved ones.
May he rest in peace.
