Ernie Holmes, a star defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers' famed "Steel Curtain" defense, died in a car crash. He was 59.
Holmes died late Thursday night on Highway 69 just outside of Lumberton in southeast Texas when his car left the roadway and rolled over several times.
Holmes, who was driving alone and was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the car, according to a Texas Department of Public Safety spokesperson. His death was first reported by television station KFDM 6 in Beaumont.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Holmes spent six seasons with the Steelers from 1972-1977 and helped Pittsburgh to Super Bowl titles in 1974 and 1975. He was a key member of a star-studded defensive which included "Mean" Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, Jack Lambert, Jack Ham and Mel Blount.
"Ernie was one of the toughest players to ever wear a Steelers uniform," Steelers chairman Dan Rooney said Friday in a statement. "He was a key member of our famous Steel Curtain defense, and many people who played against him considered Ernie almost impossible to block.
"At his best, he was an intimidating player who even the toughest opponents did not want to play against."
Holmes spent part of the 1978 season with the New England Patriots before retiring. A Jamestown, Texas native, he was an ordained minister and was living in Wiergate, Texas at the time of his death.
"Ernie seemed to be doing well in recent years and was always one of our most popular players whenever he returned to Pittsburgh for team events," Rooney said. "Our prayers go out to Ernie's family and loved ones. He will be missed by the entire Steelers family."
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