On Sunday, February 16, 2025, Mike Collier, a former NFL player instrumental in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 1975 Super Bowl victory, passed away at 71 years old. The cause of death was not specified in his obituary.
Collier, a product of Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, was selected by the Steelers in the 14th round of the 1975 NFL Draft. Despite being a late-round pick, Collier immediately made his presence felt during his rookie season.
He scored his first NFL touchdown against the Chargers in his debut game and added two more during the regular season. Apart from his three rushing touchdowns, Collier also accumulated 124 rushing yards and 523 return yards, scoring an additional touchdown as a return specialist.
Collier’s most notable contribution came in Super Bowl X against the Dallas Cowboys, which saw the Steelers clinch their second consecutive championship.
In the final quarter of the Super Bowl, his critical 25-yard kick return set the stage for the decisive field goal that led the Steelers to their back-to-back championship win. This play was pivotal in fortifying Pittsburgh’s supremacy in the 1970s.
Following a successful rookie season, Collier faced obstacles. He was placed on the injured reserve list for the 1976 season with the Steelers. During this period, he taught physical education at a school in Baltimore, his hometown. After his recovery, he continued his professional career with the Buffalo Bills in 1977.
With the Bills, Collier furthered his NFL career over three seasons. As reported by Sports Illustrated, his four-year NFL tenure saw him amass 370 rushing yards from 86 attempts, alongside 11 receptions for 73 yards, and a total of six touchdowns.
After retiring from the NFL, Collier moved back to Maryland and settled in Hagerstown. He spent over 25 years working as a manager at Martin’s grocery store, where he was appreciated for his kindness and generosity. He also enjoyed discussing football with customers.
Collier maintained ties to the Steelers and their fan base throughout his life. He enjoyed participating in autograph sessions and fan events, letting fans wear his Super Bowl ring, and reminiscing about his time with the renowned franchise.
Collier’s influence on youth sports extended beyond football. He coached local children in football, basketball, and baseball until his retirement in 2021. His involvement in the Washington County Junior Football League was consistent, as he regularly partook in game coin tosses and interacted with the young players.
Collier’s journey in football started at Morgan State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education before his NFL career. His educational background was beneficial during his stint as a teacher and later as a youth coach.
He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Lisa Collier, their three children, six grandchildren, and three siblings.
A memorial service was held for Collier on February 22, 2025.
Although Collier’s NFL career lasted only four years, his contributions to the Steelers’ championship legacy and his dedication to Maryland’s community have left an enduring impact on those who knew him both as a professional football player and a community member.
