Super Bowl champion Mike Collier passed away on Sunday at the age of 71, as reported in an online obituary. He died at Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, Maryland, with the cause of death currently unknown. Collier was a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers during their Super Bowl X victory in 1975, participating in three playoff games leading up to the championship.
A running back, Collier played three seasons in the NFL, spending one year with the Steelers and two with the Buffalo Bills. Throughout his career, he appeared in 36 games, recording 86 rushing attempts for 870 yards and five touchdowns. Reflecting on his NFL experience in a 2013 interview with the Baltimore Sun, Collier expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It used to seem like a dream… I realize that a lot of people would love to have been in my position. I thank God that He gave me the opportunity to be there.”
Collier played college football at Morgan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. He was selected in the 14th round (364th overall pick) of the 1975 NFL Draft by the Steelers. After retiring from professional football, Collier dedicated his time to coaching local youth in football, basketball, and baseball. He also worked as a grocery store manager until his retirement in 2021. In his later years, he enjoyed signing autographs for local charities and spending quality time with his family while watching football.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Lisa, along with their three children, six grandchildren, and three siblings.
