On Sunday, February 16, 2025, Mike Collier, the former running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers who played a crucial role in their 1975 Super Bowl victory, passed away at 71. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
Collier was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, in the 14th round of the 1975 NFL Draft. Despite his late draft position, he made an impressive debut in his rookie season.
In his first NFL game against the Chargers, Collier scored a touchdown. He went on to score two more touchdowns during the regular season. He finished his rookie season with 124 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he achieved 523 return yards and another touchdown as a return specialist.
In Super Bowl X against the Dallas Cowboys, Collier significantly contributed to the Steelers’ second consecutive championship win. His 25-yard kick return in the final quarter set up a critical field goal, ultimately leading the Steelers to victory and solidifying their dominance in the 1970s.
However, following his promising first year, Collier’s NFL trajectory faced hurdles. He spent the 1976 season on the injured reserve list with the Steelers, during which time he taught physical education at a school in his native city, Baltimore, Maryland. After his recovery, he resumed his professional football career with the Buffalo Bills in 1977.
According to Sports Illustrated, Collier added to his NFL accomplishments in his three seasons with Buffalo. His overall NFL career spanned four seasons, and he accumulated 370 rushing yards, 11 receptions for 73 yards, and six touchdowns.
After retiring from professional football, Collier returned to Maryland, settling in Hagerstown. He built a rewarding post-NFL life focused on family, community service, and maintaining his connection to football. For over 25 years, he worked as a manager for Martin’s grocery store and was known for his kindness and willingness to discuss football with anyone.
Collier maintained ties with the Steelers organization and football fans throughout his life. He enjoyed participating in autograph signings and fan events, allowing fans to wear his Super Bowl ring, and sharing stories from his time with the esteemed franchise.
Collier’s influence on local youth sports went beyond football. He coached local children in football, basketball, and baseball until his retirement in 2021. He was also active in the Washington County Junior Football League, frequently participating in game coin tosses and engaging with the children.
Collier’s football career started at Morgan State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education before being drafted by the Steelers. This educational background served him well during his brief teaching stint and as a youth coach.
TMZ reported that he is survived by his wife, Lisa Collier, their three children, six grandchildren, and three siblings. Collier’s memorial service took place on February 22, 2025.
Although his NFL career was relatively short, spanning just four seasons, Collier’s contributions to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ championship legacy and his long-standing involvement in his Maryland community impacted all who knew him, both as a football player and a community member.
