Kordell Stewart, the former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback known as "Slash," is sharing his story about a persistent rumor that shadowed his career for 28 years in the new HBO and NFL Films documentary, "Kordell Stewart: Slash & Burn."
Stewart recounted how, 28 years ago, a friend informed him about a rumor circulating at a barbershop that he had been arrested in Schenley Park in Pittsburgh for a lewd act with a transgender woman. The unfounded story quickly spread, leading to inquiries from former teammates and others across various cities. Despite denying the accusations and never being arrested, Stewart faced scrutiny stemming from the rumor throughout his time trying to establish himself as the Steelers' starting quarterback.
In the documentary, Stewart revisits Schenley Park and the location where the rumor allegedly originated. He described the experience as "unique and cathartic," offering him a chance to tell his side of the story and detail the rumor's long-term impact.
Stewart, who also played receiver and running back, believes he was a trailblazer for his dual-threat abilities, which are now highly valued in the NFL. He expressed appreciation for his career, acknowledging both the fun and the difficult moments, and noted that former Steelers Coach Bill Cowher won more games with him as a quarterback than with any other.
During his tenure with the Steelers, Stewart achieved significant milestones. In 1997, he led the team to an 11-5 record and the AFC Championship Game. He was the first player in NFL history to record over 20 passing touchdowns (21) and over 10 rushing touchdowns (11) in a single season. He also ranks third in Steelers history for passing yards and holds the franchise record for quarterback rushing yards with 2,561.
Despite facing challenges such as coaching changes, offensive coordinator shifts, and the persistent rumor, Stewart maintained his focus. He noted that the rumor was reportedly traced back to a Pittsburgh police officer, though he remains uncertain of the exact source. Stewart expressed disbelief that such a rumor would circulate, particularly from someone who might have been a Steelers fan.
Stewart reflected on the rumor's impact, stating, "That makes me want to go back in time and do it again. Because you weren’t going to move me off my spot of what I believed in and knew what I could do." He compared his career accomplishments to those of Hall of Fame quarterbacks like Dan Marino, Dan Fouts, and Warren Moon, suggesting that not winning a Super Bowl was his only significant drawback.
Currently, the 54-year-old Stewart serves as the volunteer offensive coordinator for the South Forsyth War Eagles high school football team in Cumming, Georgia. He hopes his career and contributions to the Steelers and the NFL are recognized for their entirety, beyond the unfounded rumor and the Super Bowl absence.
"The body of work and the totality of the stuff I did in that city, you can’t throw that away," Stewart said. "The reality is no one has ever done before, and will not ever have to play the game that way – full-time at receiver, become the best quarterback, and then it be talked about in a way we will have to learn how to because that impact on the game has changed the game so much."
Stewart concluded by expressing pride in his time with the Steelers and gratitude for the fans who appreciated his contributions. "If I had to do it again, I promise you I’d do it again. I wouldn’t change nothing."