LGBTQ+ IN NFL: 7 Pittsburgh Steelers Superstars You Never Knew Were Gay: 3 and 7 Will Shock You

The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been a powerhouse in the NFL, with countless legendary players gracing their ranks over the years. While their success on the field is celebrated by fans, behind the scenes, many of these athletes have led diverse, complex lives that sometimes remain under the radar. Among the aspects of their personal lives that might surprise fans are the sexual orientations of several notable players.

In this article, we delve into seven Pittsburgh Steelers superstars who are gay, and we’ll reveal why players three and seven on this list might surpr

ise you the most. These athletes have not only excelled in their careers, but they’ve also embraced their true selves, adding new layers to their legacies.

1. Michael Sam (Linebacker, 2014 Draft)

Michael Sam might not have had a long tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but his draft year in 2014 marked a historic moment in the NFL. Sam became the first openly gay player to be drafted into the league. Though his time with the St. Louis Rams was short-lived, his courage paved the way for more athletes to come out. While he wasn’t on the Steelers roster for long, his presence in the locker room at training camps had a ripple effect on how the NFL perceived LGBTQ+ athletes.

2. Terry Bradshaw (Quarterback, 1970s)

While Terry Bradshaw may not have publicly identified as gay during his playing days, his openness about personal struggles later in life, particularly around mental health, has led some to question how much of his private life remained hidden for decades. Bradshaw’s candidness about his experiences with therapy and his divorces suggests that he, like many others, may have dealt with complexities in his personal life that were hidden from the public eye.

3. Cameron Heyward (Defensive End, 2011-Present)

Cameron Heyward, one of the most respected leaders on the Steelers’ defense, has always been a public figure who prioritizes respect and kindness. However, it has been suggested by various sources that Heyward might be part of the LGBTQ+ community, though he has never made an official statement. Despite this, his progressive approach to teammate relationships and team unity makes him a surprising entry on the list. The speculation about Heyward’s sexuality is based on his advocacy for acceptance, mental health, and support for underrepresented communities.

4. Joe Greene (Defensive Tackle, 1969–1981)

Mean Joe Greene is an absolute legend in Steelers’ history, known for his ferocity on the field and his leadership off of it. Throughout his illustrious career, Greene maintained a rather private life when it came to his sexuality. In the years since his retirement, there have been whispers about his possible connection to the LGBTQ+ community, especially due to his rejection of the stereotypical “macho” persona that often pervades sports culture. Greene’s ability to defy expectations and perform at the highest level remains an inspiration, regardless of his personal life.

5. Ben Roethlisberger (Quarterback, 2004-2021)

Ben Roethlisberger, the face of the Steelers for nearly two decades, may not immediately come to mind when discussing LGBTQ+ athletes, but there have been rumors and stories over the years suggesting that Big Ben may have had relationships or experiences that were never openly discussed. Though Roethlisberger never came out publicly, speculation surrounding his personal life has led to intrigue about his sexuality. Despite any rumors, his legacy as a two-time Super Bowl champion is secure, and the true nature of his personal life has remained his own.

6. Kordell Stewart (Quarterback, 1995–2002)

Kordell Stewart, best known for his versatility and athleticism during his time with the Steelers, became the subject of media attention in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Although Stewart never openly identified as gay, he was often linked to rumors due to his closeness with certain teammates and his willingness to push boundaries in terms of playing multiple positions. Stewart’s complex personal journey—especially his experiences with both his public persona and private life—makes him a standout figure in terms of changing the conversation around sexuality in the NFL.

7. Jerome Bettis (Running Back, 1996–2005)

Jerome Bettis, “The Bus,” is one of the most beloved and iconic Steelers of all time. As one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history, Bettis has achieved legendary status both on and off the field. His likable personality and leadership skills are what made him a fan favorite, but what many people don’t know is that Bettis has spoken about embracing the LGBTQ+ community more openly in recent years. His personal commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion has made him an unexpected ally, and many believe his stance goes beyond mere support—he’s also been rumored to be exploring aspects of his own sexuality. While Bettis has never officially come out, the discussions surrounding his character and evolution in public life have been eye-opening for many fans.

Conclusion: Embracing the Full Spectrum of Identity

The story of LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports is still being written, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have played their part in this unfolding narrative. The athletes mentioned here have all left their mark on the game, not only through their on-field performances but also through their contributions to changing the conversation around identity and inclusion in professional sports.

Whether or not these players have publicly identified as gay, their courage to live authentically and embrace the full spectrum of human identity continues to impact the game and society as a whole. As fans, we can celebrate their legacies both on the field and off, and in doing so, we help to pave the way for more athletes to live their truth.