Who Was “Mean” Joe Greene?
Greene earned his nickname both for dominating the line of scrimmage and his stoic presence off the field. As the heart of the Steelers’ famed Steel Curtain defense during the 1970s, he helped lead Pittsburgh to four Super Bowl titles in six seasons. His signature combination of intensity and leadership redefined defensive play in the NFL
What to Expect in The Underdog
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Rare and emotional archival footage: From relentless tackles to quiet locker room reflections.
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New interviews: Affectionate recollections from teammates like Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Mel Blount.
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Cultural context: Greene’s roots in Texas, his role confronting racism in the Deep South, and the iconic 1979 Coca‑Cola commercial that humanized his “Mean Joe”
Netflix executive Lila Armstrong describes it as “more than a sports documentary… a story of resilience, leadership, and quiet revolution”
Why It Matters
This film goes beyond gridiron greatness. It examines Greene’s personal journey—his upbringing, battles with racial adversity, and emotional maturation. It reveals the man behind the legend and the heart beneath the intimidating jersey. For Steelers fans and sports enthusiasts alike, this promises to be a rich exploration of an era-defining athlete and his impact on and off the field.
Save the Date
Mark July 14, 2025 on your calendar. The Underdog drops globally on Netflix, ready to tell the untold story of “Mean” Joe Greene—one of football’s greatest and most influential figures.
Stay tuned for the trailer and streaming announcement. Steelers Nation is expected to unite once again around this compelling tribute.
If you’re eager for more behind-the-scenes NFL stories, Netflix’s “Quarterback” Season 2 featuring Joe Burrow and others premieres July 8
