Steelers' Kevin Greene Revealed What Fans Never Knew About Leaving Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers had linebacker Kevin Greene in the Steel City from 1993 to 1995. His three seasons in black and gold were quick, but very productive. During that time, Greene earned two Pro Bowl selections and was named to one All-Pro Team, cementing his status as a dominant force on the defense.

After his time with the Steelers, Greene signed a lucrative deal with the Carolina Panthers. Many believed the then 34-year-old linebacker was nearing the end of his career, but Greene proved them wrong by continuing to perform at a high level. Steelers fans were disappointed to see him go and Greene felt the need to clear the air about his departure.

Sadly, Greene passed away at the age of 58. Before his passing, he shared on Fox Sports Pittsburgh a never before told story explaining the real reasons behind why he left the Steelers. His honesty gave fans new insight into a chapter of Steelers history that many had only speculated about.

"I didn't want to leave and I think that's a misconception a lot of people have is that I sold out, or whatever, and went to the Panthers for big money. But I really wanted to stay," said Greene. "I'm not going to get into the particulars of why I didn't go, but I didn't want to ride the pine and be on the bench. I wanted an opportunity to compete for a starting job and so I had to leave Pittsburgh when I did."

It seems that Greene truly left because he felt he would no longer have the opportunity to play in Pittsburgh. He wanted more game action than he believed he would get with the Steelers. That was the real reason he left the Steel City, even though he never wanted to leave in the first place.

Many Steelers fans did not know that Greene did not leave because he was chasing money. What he really wanted was a promise of playing time. This was something he felt he could no longer count on in Pittsburgh. Greene’s explanation gave fans a new perspective on his departure. It showed that his decision was about staying on the field and competing, not about money or other distractions.

"I bleed black and gold and once a Steeler, always a Steeler," said Greene.

In his first season with the Panthers, Greene truly balled out. At 34 years old, he led the entire league with 14.5 sacks, playing a huge role in powering the second-year expansion team all the way to the NFC Championship Game. 

Greene’s relentless pass rushing and leadership on the field made him a major factor in the Panthers’ incredible playoff run. He continued his high level of play and earned another Pro Bowl selection during the 1998 season, proving that age was no barrier to his impact on the game.

Steelers' Kevin Greene Will Always Bleed Black And Gold

Greene’s career achievements eventually earned him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most fearsome players to ever take the field. Throughout his time playing for the Panthers, Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Los Angeles Rams, Greene always carried an undeniable passion for the game and a fierce competitive spirit.

Despite representing multiple teams during his career, Greene made it clear that his heart would always belong to Pittsburgh. He proudly declared that no matter where he played, he would forever bleed black and gold. His loyalty to the Steelers and the city remains a defining part of his legacy, resonating deeply with fans who remember his impact both on and off the field.

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