Former Pittsburgh Steelers player Greg Hawthorne, a Super Bowl champion, has died at the age of 69. His family announced his passing on Facebook, which led to tributes from around the NFL. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Hawthorne began his NFL career with the Steelers after being selected 28th overall in the draft from Baylor University. He was part of the team that won the Super Bowl in his rookie season in 1980. Despite pulling his hamstring during training camp, he played in 15 games that season, including the Super Bowl victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
He later played for the New England Patriots in 1984, appearing in another Super Bowl, which ended in a loss to the Chicago Bears. Hawthorne concluded his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts in 1987. During his nine years in the league, he played as a tight end, running back, and wide receiver, accumulating 527 rushing yards and 92 receptions.
The family's Facebook statement read: "On behalf of the Hawthorne family, it is with deep sadness that our brother Gregory Dale Hawthorne passed away last night. Please keep his mother and his children, his brother and sisters as well as the whole family in your prayers. Service arrangements will be shared as soon as they become available. Our family appreciates your love, support, and understanding during this time."