Although L.C. Greenwood displayed the qualities of NFL Hall of Famers and was a finalist twice for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, he never was elected. He was a Pittsburgh legend nevertheless. No doubt about it. During his 13-year career with the Steelers, he helped Pittsburgh win four Super Bowls and seven division titles.
When Greenwood died on Sunday, team Chairman Dan Rooney said in a statement, “L.C. was one of the most beloved Steelers during the most successful period in team history and he will be missed by the entire organization. He will forever be remembered for what he meant to the Steelers both on and off the field.”
The Steelers drafted L.C.Greenwood in 1969, the same year they picked Joe Greene in the NFL draft. For 11 years, he teamed with “Mean Joe” at left tackle as part of the legendary “Steel Curtain,” the defense that brought glory and fame to the Steelers.
“L.C. was a quiet guy; he didn’t attempt to position himself as the center of attention even though he played an integral part of that front four,” said former Steelers scout Bill Nunn, who had scouted Mr. Greenwood. “I used to call him and Jack Ham the quiet assassins because neither one of them would say a word, or put on a show for you. They both just went about their business quietly.”
His speed, his athleticism and his tactics earned L.C Greenwood a reputation of a great player. He also was famous for his gold-colored shoes he wore on the football field and his nickname “Hollywood Bags” — he earned it because he claimed he kept his bags ready to go so he could leave quickly when Hollywood calls.
Mr. Greenwood lived in Point Breeze after being cut by the Steelers before the 1982 season. He died last Sunday at age 67.
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