Former NFL running back Rocky Bleier visits Pennsylvania high school

Former Pittsburgh Steelers player Rocky Bleier graced Muhlenberg High School as part of the school’s ‘Beating the Odds’ program. The running back who played 11 National Football League seasons shared his wisdom in overcoming the odds to attain success.

As WMFZ News wrote, Bleier shared how an injury during the Vietnam War jeopardized his football career. However, he had a full career with the Steelers after attending the University of Notre Dame.

After playing three seasons and winning a National Championship with the Fighting Irish, the Steelers selected Bleier in the 16^th round of the 1968 NFL Draft. The Wisconsin native fell into a great place because he played with one of the league’s best dynasties.

Rocky Bleier won four Super Bowl titles with the Steelers during the ‘Steel Curtain’ era. While defensive players like Jack Lambert, Jack Ham, Joe Greene, and Mel Blount got most of the limelight, Bleier was a part of a stacked Pittsburgh offense.

What an incredible day at Muhlenberg High School! Beating the Odds Foundation was thrilled to bring the inspiring 'Beating the Odds' assembly to 1,100 students in grades 9-12. Rocco Scalzi & Rocky Bleier shared their empowering stories of perseverance 🇺🇸@PADeptofEd @PSEA @PSBA pic.twitter.com/PMcrUCMzeK

— Dr. Joseph Macharola (@JMacharola) March 22, 2025

The Purple Heart recipient played for the Steelers from 1968 to 1980. However, he skipped the 1969 season to serve in the United States Army and the 1970 campaign due to injury. He finished his career with 4,345 rushing yards, 1,496 receiving yards, and 31 touchdowns (including playoffs).

While those numbers pale in comparison with those of his contemporary, Franco Harris, Bleier was still a part of the Steelers Hall of Honor and All-Time Team. He is also a Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.

Muhlenberg hopes that Rocky Bleier’s visit could inspire their student-athletes to do better next year. Their football team finished with a 4-7 record, which included a six-game winning streak. Meanwhile, their girls basketball team wrapped up their season with a 3-16 record. The Muhls’ boys basketball team did better, finishing at 15-8, but lost three of their last four games.