PITTSBURGH Steelers legend “Mean” Joe Greene has not died, despite a viral hoax circulating on social media.

 

 

 

Rumors started picking up on Friday with an incorrect report claiming the 79-year-old NFL icon had died.

NFL: DEC 24 Raiders at Steelers

‘Mean’ Joe Greene looks on during a game between the Raiders and Steelers in 2022

 

Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Colts

Greene appears muddied in a 1976 game against the Baltimore Colts

 

 

 

 

Tributes immediately began pouring in for the four-time Super Bowl champion, but they were not necessary.

According to respected NFL journalist John McClain, Greene is still alive.

“Fortunately, Joe Greene has NOT died,” he wrote on X.

“I got that from his family. That report was fake news. Joe is doing great!!!”

The Steelers later confirmed to The U.S. Sun that Greene did not die.

 

 

 

Greene is the last surviving member of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense.

He spent 13 years in the NFL, recording 77.5 sacks and 16 fumble recoveries.

He is a Defensive Rookie of the Year, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, four-time All-Pro, and 10-time Pro Bowler.

 

 

 

Greene was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

The Steelers retired Greene’s No. 75 jersey in 2014.

He is also on the team’s All-Time Team list.