Jack Lambert

Jack Lambert is a former NFL athlete recognized for his formidable presence as a middle linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, contributing to four Super Bowl victories. After being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round (46th overall) of the 1974 NFL Draft, Jack Lambert immediately established himself as a dominant force, securing the starting middle linebacker position as a rookie and earning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year title that same year. His formidable presence was instrumental in shaping Pittsburgh’s legendary ‘Steel Curtain’ defense, a foundation for four Super Bowl victories. Prior to his professional career, Lambert was a two-year All-Mid-American Conference linebacker at Kent State University, where he led the team to its first MAC championship in 1972 and was named the MAC’s Defensive Player of the Year.

His collegiate achievements were further recognized with his induction into the Kent State Hall of Fame in 1981. Following his retirement, Lambert’s profound impact on football continued to be celebrated through numerous prestigious inductions and honors. He was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990 and inducted into the Mid-American Conference Hall of Fame in 1988. His legacy is cemented by his inclusion in the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team, the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team, the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, and most recently, the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team in 2019.

In 2017, the Pittsburgh Steelers honored him as an inaugural member of their Hall of Honor, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant and iconic defensive players in NFL history.