ASHWAUBENON, WISCONSIN – MAY 31: A detailed view of a Green Bay Packers helmet during an OTA practice session at Don Hutson Center on May 31, 2023 in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
A former star for the Green Bay Packers is reported to have passed away.
The University of Montana revealed on Tuesday that Steve Okoniewski, who also played for the Grizzlies, died at the age of 74 on Tuesday.
“We lost a Montana legend,” the team wrote in a tweet. “Steve Okoniewski was a Grizzly All-American and 2nd-round NFL Draft pick in 1972. After a six-year NFL career, he became an educator and a state-champion high school football coach in Montana and Wisconsin. Our hearts are with his family.”
The former defensive tackle played six years in the NFL, two of which were spent with the Packers. He began his career with the Buffalo Bills, playing from 1972-73 before moving to Green Bay, where he had a two-year stint.
He retired after a spell with the St. Louis Cardinals.
We lost a Montana legend.
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Related PostsSteve Okoniewski was a Grizzly All-American and 2nd-round NFL Draft pick in 1972.
After a six-year NFL career, he became an educator and a state-champion high school football coach in Montana and Wisconsin.
Our hearts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/EuEoel6yJ8
— Montana Griz Football (@MontanaGrizFB) February 26, 2024
While he played for three organizations, Okoniewski seemed most proud of his time in Green Bay.
“I didn’t play on successful teams, and I wasn’t the most talented player,” he said in 2010. “I had to work extra hard because I didn’t have the natural abilities. … But I’m proud to say, I was a Green Bay Packer and live in Green Bay.”
TotalProSports extends commiserations to Steve’s family, friends, and loved ones.
Rest in peace, Steve Okoniewski. 1949-2024
