L.C. Greenwood: The Steel Curtain's Golden-Cleated Giant

One of the most dominant defensive linemen of the 1970s, L.C. Greenwood was a towering presence on the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers “Steel Curtain” defense. Standing 6’6″ and instantly recognizable for his gold-colored cleats, Greenwood terrorized opposing offenses for 13 seasons while helping to build one of the greatest dynasties in NFL history.

 Selected by the Steelers in the 10th round of the 1969 NFL Draft out of Arkansas AM&N (now Arkansas-Pine Bluff) Greenwood defied his humble draft status to become one of the best defensive ends of his era. Alongside “Mean” Joe Greene, Ernie Holmes, and Dwight White, he formed part of the defensive line that anchored Pittsburgh’s famed Steel Curtain defense during their run of four Super Bowl victories in six years.

LC Greenwood’s combination of size, speed, and agility made him a nightmare for offensive tackles. As a defensive end he excelled both as a pass rusher and run stopper. And while sacks weren’t an official NFL statistic until 1982, Greenwood is unofficially credited with 78 sacks during his career – an impressive number for that era.

His finest moment arguably came in Super Bowl X against the Dallas Cowboys, where he sacked Roger Staubach four times in a masterful performance that helped secure a 21-17 victory for Pittsburgh. The game showcased everything that made Greenwood special: his explosive first step, his relentless motor and the ability to take over games from the defensive end position.

Despite his impressive resume, Greenwood has yet to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, an oversight that many football historians consider significant. His contributions to one of the NFL’s greatest defenses and his role in Pittsburgh’s dynasty are undeniable, though, and his impact on the game extends beyond statistics.
Throughout his career, Greenwood earned six Pro Bowl selections (1973-1976, 1978-1979) and was named First-team All-Pro twice (1974-1975). He appeared in six AFC Championship games and won four Super Bowl rings with the Steelers. His gold cleats, which he wore to help fans spot him on the field, became his trademark and added to his larger-than-life persona.
LC Greenwood on the Steelers Sideline
LC Greenwood

Image Gallery of LC Greenwood, Defensive Tackle 1969-1981

LC Greenwood Football Cards

LC Greenwood All Time Career Statistics

Regular Season Career Totals
SeasonAgeTeamGamesStartsFumble RecoveriesSacksSafties
196923PIT12004.00
197024PIT12002.50
197125PIT1414511.00
197226PIT131304.00
1973*27PIT141438.50
1974+*28PIT1414311.01♦
1975+*29PIT141406.00
1976*30PIT131314.50
1977*31PIT9802.50
197832PIT141419.00
1979*33PIT121107.00
1980*34PIT151515.00
198135PIT14503.00
13 Year NFL Career1701351478.01
Post Season Career Totals
SeasonAgeGamesSacks
19722621.0
1973*2711.0
1974+*2831.0
1975+*2935.0
1976*3021.0
1977*311 
1978*3232.5
1979*3331.0
Post Season Totals1812.5
  • + – All-Pro Selection
  • * – Pro Bowl Selection
  • ♦ – Led the League
  • ♚ – NFL Champion

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phil

Owner/Operator of NFL Past Players. Also runs New Orleans Saints History