Netflix has officially unveiled its next major sports documentary project, and this time it turns the spotlight on a gridiron icon. Titled “The Underdog,” the documentary chronicles the extraordinary life, legendary career, and enduring legacy of Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Famer “Mean” Joe Greene — one of the most dominant and respected figures in the history of the National Football League (NFL). Scheduled for global release on October 20, 2025, the film aims to introduce a new generation of fans to a man whose name defined toughness, leadership, and change — both on and off the field.
With a storytelling style reminiscent of ESPN’s The Last Dance and Netflix’s Untold series, “The Underdog” is already being hailed by early reviewers as a “deeply emotional and powerful” tribute to the face of the 1970s Steelers dynasty.
“Mean” Joe Greene: The Heart and Soul of a Football Empire
The documentary explores how Charles Edward Greene, better known as “Mean” Joe Greene, became the cornerstone of a franchise that went from being perennial underachievers to four-time Super Bowl champions during the 1970s. Drafted 4th overall in 1969 out of the University of North Texas, Greene arrived in Pittsburgh as a relative unknown — a dominant college player, yes, but from a small program that many NFL scouts had overlooked.
In an emotional early scene of the film, Greene himself reflects:
“People laughed when I was drafted. They said I was too mean, too angry, too raw. What they didn’t know was that I came to change a culture, not just play a position.”
And that’s exactly what he did.
Building the Steel Curtain
Through never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews, “The Underdog” revisits the formation of the Steel Curtain — the fearsome defensive line that terrorized NFL offenses in the 1970s. Anchored by Greene, the unit became the foundation of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ dynasty under head coach Chuck Noll.
Former teammates like Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris (in archival footage), Jack Ham, Mel Blount, and L.C. Greenwood speak candidly in the documentary about how Greene’s relentless work ethic, intensity, and leadership elevated the team’s expectations.
“We were all good players,” says Bradshaw. “But Joe made us believe we could be great.”
Fans will get an intimate look at legendary moments, including Greene’s sideline outbursts, locker room speeches, and the infamous 1974 AFC Championship Game, where Greene’s dominance effectively shut down the Oakland Raiders’ offense.
Not Just Mean – A Man of Principle
The documentary doesn’t just focus on Joe Greene the player — it also dives into Joe Greene the man.
Nicknamed “Mean Joe” for his fearsome demeanor on the field, the film contrasts that image with his softer, more thoughtful side. Former coaches and players describe him as introspective, principled, and fiercely loyal.
The documentary explores Greene’s experiences as a Black athlete in a racially turbulent America during the late 1960s and 1970s. Greene discusses how he used football as both a platform and a shield, while always remaining true to his roots and values.
Duane Hopson, the film’s co-director, shares:
“Joe Greene’s story is about more than tackles and trophies. It’s about a man who carried the burden of leadership with grace and grit in one of the most transformative eras in American sports.”
