Mike Wagner

Michael Robert Wagner (June 22, 1949 – February 18, 2026) was an American professional football player who played safety for ten seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. Born in Waukegan, Illinois, he graduated in 1967 from Carmel High School in Mundelein and went on to play college football at Western Illinois University in Macomb, earning NAIA All-American status in 1969. The Steelers selected him in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL draft, 268th overall. Initially looked at as a wide receiver on offense, he was soon switched to defense at safety. Wagner tied for the NFL lead with eight interceptions in 1973 and appeared in the 1975 and 1976 Pro Bowls. Over his career he recorded 36 interceptions and 12 fumble recoveries. As a member of the Steelers' Steel Curtain defense, he won four Super Bowls, recording interceptions in Super Bowl IX. Alongside Jack Ham, Wagner holds the franchise record for most playoff interceptions, with five. He was added to the Western Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame in 1976.