Pittsburgh lost a giant today—in every sense of the word. Craig Wolfley, former Steelers lineman, radio analyst, and all-around larger-than-life personality, has passed away at 66. Known for his quick wit, boundless positivity, and deep love for the game, Wolfley wasn’t just a player or broadcaster. He was a Steelers institution.
Born in Buffalo, Wolfley made his mark early at Syracuse, earning All-American honors and a spot on the school’s All-Century team. Drafted by the Steelers in 1980, he spent a decade in Pittsburgh trenches under Chuck Noll, starting 104 games. But football was just one part of his story. Boxing, martial arts, powerlifting—Wolfley thrived in all of it. He even placed fifth in the 1981 World’s Strongest Man competition. If there was a challenge, he took it head-on.
After hanging up his cleats, Wolfley found a second home in the Steelers’ broadcast booth. He spent two decades as a sideline reporter and color analyst, bringing the same fire and humor to the mic that he had on the field. Alongside his longtime teammate and best friend, Tunch Ilkin, he formed an iconic duo both on-air and off. “It’s beyond friendship,” Bill Hillgrove once said. “We’re talking 41 years. It’s a brotherhood, and it’s probably something deeper than that.”
Wolfley’s impact reached beyond the field and the booth. He was deeply involved in the Pittsburgh community, supporting the Light of Life Rescue Mission and speaking at Mike Tomlin’s annual ManUp events. His faith was his foundation, and his generosity knew no bounds. Losing Ilkin in 2021 hit him hard—now, the two are reunited. As Wolfley would say, his “chalouch” is back by his side.
Pittsburgh has suffered some tough losses in recent years—Ilkin, Stan Savran, and now Wolfley. The booth will find another voice, but there will never be another Craig Wolfley. His laugh, his grit, his love for the Steelers—all of it will live on.
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