Steelers Offensive Lineman, Color Broadcaster Craig Wolfley Dies at 66
Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman and color broadcaster Craig Wolfley has died at the age of 66. Wolfley had been privately fighting a cancer diagnosis in recent weeks.
Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Wolfley first came to Pittsburgh as a fifth-round draft pick of the Steelers out of Syracuse in 1980. His tough and physical playing style combined with a big smile on his face and a larger-than-life personality made him an immediate fan favorite and fit in the Steel City.
Wolfley spent 10 seasons with the Steelers from 1980-89, starting at both guard and tackle. He spent the final two seasons of his career with the Minnesota Vikings before retiring in 1991.
In addition to his passion for football, Wolfley was also competitive in weightlifting, placing fifth in the 1981 World’s Strongest Man competition, sumo wrestling, martial arts and boxing. Wolfley ran the Wolfpack Boxing Club in Bridgeville after his playing career.
In 2002, Wolfley joined the Steelers radio broadcast team, replacing his life-long friend and former teammate Tunch Ilkin, when Ilkin moved into the booth with Bill Hillgrove and Myron Cope. Wolfley remained on the sideline when Cope retired in 2006, but replaced Ilkin after his death from ALS in 2021. Wolfley became a beloved broadcaster for his obvious passion for the game, colorful descriptions of play in the trenches, and his self-effacing sense of humor.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Craig Wolfley, a beloved member of the Pittsburgh Steelers family,” Steelers president Art Rooney II said in a press release. “Craig was an outstanding player who brought both toughness and heart to the field during his 10 seasons with the Steelers. As an offensive lineman, his grit and dedication were essential to our success, contributing to the solid foundation of the Steelers’ offensive line in the 1980s and 1990s. His work ethic and commitment to excellence were felt both in the locker room and on the field, and his leadership was always evident.
“Following his retirement from playing, Craig seamlessly transitioned into a broadcaster, providing insightful commentary and analysis as part of the Steelers Radio Network. His passionate voice and deep understanding of the game made him a trusted figure for Steelers fans, and his humor, warmth, and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on our community.
“On behalf of the entire Steelers organization, we offer our deepest condolences to Craig’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Wolfley and Ilkin were also passionate about their faith, both attending services at The Bible Chapel in McMurray, and in charity work. They started Tunch & Wolf’s Walk for the Homeless, which has run for 22 years to benefit the Light of Life Rescue Mission on the North Side.
Wolfley leaves behind six children and his wife, Faith. A member of a football family, he was the brother of Arizona Cardinals fullback and Ron Wolfley, who also served as his team’s color broadcaster until his recent retirement. Ron and another brother Dale Wolfley both played at West Virginia, where Dale was a member of the coaching staff and also a member of the WVU broadcast team after his playing career. Dale Wolfley died at the age of 56 in 2023.