JACK
LAMBERT

Jack Lambert arrived in Pittsburgh in 1974 as a lean, intense linebacker from Kent State and quickly became one of the defining players of the Steelers' dynasty. A second-round draft choice (46th overall), he won the starting middle linebacker job as a rookie and held it throughout his 11-year career.

At 6'4" and 220 lbs, Lambert was light by traditional middle linebacker standards. But what he lacked in bulk he more than made up for with speed, range, intelligence and relentless competitive intensity. He could attack the run, cover backs and tight ends, drop into coverage and make plays from sideline to sideline.

Lambert was named AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1974 and AP Defensive Player of the Year in 1976 (finishing second behind only Bert Jones for 1976 NFL League MVP honors). He became the snarling, toothless face of the Steel Curtain and the emotional center of a defense loaded with Hall of Fame talent. During his 11 seasons, Pittsburgh won 4 Super Bowls and Lambert earned 9 Pro Bowl selections.

His reputation for intimidation sometimes overshadows just how complete a football player he was. Lambert finished his career with 28 INTs and 17 fumble recoveries, remarkable production for an inside linebacker. He played with intelligence and discipline as well as violence, and his ability in pass coverage helped redefine what it meant to be a great all-around middle linebacker.

Ultimately, Lambert's body forced him from the game before his will ever did. A debilitating case of turf toe limited him in 1984 and ultimately ended his career. He retired in 1985 as one of the defining players of the Steelers dynasty and arguably the greatest middle linebacker the game had ever seen. Five years later, on August 4, 1990, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.