Pittsburgh Steelers: 30 greatest players in franchise history
55. . CB. (1970-83). Mel Blount. 3. player
57 interceptions headlines Mel Blount‘s career. The 1975 NFL Defensive Player of the Year led the entire NFL in interceptions and the Steelers defense to one of four Super Bowls. The five-time Pro Bowl selection was the face of Pittsburgh secondary during the era and ended his career as easily the best corner to come through the franchise.
He was one of the first prototypical cornerbacks. His ability to cover, press and tackle were unmatched during the time. Even today, Blount would shut down some of the league’s best, without missing a step.
He also had the Steel Curtain mentality. Bump-and-run was his go-to. Whenever there was a chance to make a hit people would remember, or the receiver would remember, he’d be all over it.
Blount was the complete package. Pittsburgh has yet to find a corner that met his level of play. Even some of the best defensive backs to play in black and gold were nowhere near as talented and raw as Blount.