Mike Collier, a former Pittsburgh Steelers running back who played a key role in their 1975 Super Bowl victory, passed away on February 16, 2025, at the age of 71. The cause of his death was not specified in his obituary.

According to TMZ, Collier was a 14th round selection in the 1975 NFL Draft from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. He made a significant contribution in his rookie season despite being a late-round pick.

In his debut NFL game against the Chargers, Collier scored a touchdown and added two more throughout the regular season. His rookie stats included 124 rushing yards, three touchdowns, 523 return yards, and an additional touchdown as a return specialist.

Collier’s most notable performance came in Super Bowl X against the Dallas Cowboys, aiding the Steelers in securing their second straight championship. His critical 25-yard kick return in the fourth quarter set up a decisive field goal, asserting Pittsburgh’s dominance in the 1970s.

Despite a promising start, Collier’s NFL career faced adversity. He spent the 1976 season on injured reserve with the Steelers and used this time to teach physical education in a Baltimore, Maryland school. After recovering, he continued his professional football career with the Buffalo Bills in 1977.

As reported by Sports Illustrated, during his three seasons with Buffalo, and four in the NFL overall, Collier accumulated 370 rushing yards, caught 11 passes for 73 yards and scored six touchdowns.

Post-NFL, Collier returned to Maryland, settling in Hagerstown. He built a successful life beyond football, focused on family, community service, and maintaining a connection to the sport. For over 25 years, he worked as a manager for Martin’s grocery store, becoming known for his kindness, generosity, and love for discussing football.

Collier remained connected to the Steelers organization and football enthusiasts throughout his life. He relished participating in autograph signings, interacting with fans, allowing them to wear his Super Bowl ring, and sharing his experiences with the franchise.

Beyond football, Collier’s influence on youth sports was significant. He coached local children in football, basketball, and baseball until his retirement in 2021, imparting his experience and knowledge to the younger generations. He was an active participant in the Washington County Junior Football League, regularly taking part in game coin tosses and engaging with the kids.

His football journey started at Morgan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education before being drafted by the Steelers. This educational foundation served him well during his brief teaching career and as a youth coach.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Collier, with whom he shared over 40 years of marriage, their three children, six grandchildren, and three siblings, reports TMZ.

Memorial services for Collier took place on February 22, 2025.

While Collier’s NFL career was brief, spanning just four seasons, his contributions to the Steelers’ championship legacy and his decades of involvement in Maryland’s community have left a lasting mark on those who knew him as a football player and community figure.