Craig Wolfley was a prominent figure in American football, best known for his time as an offensive lineman with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings. Born on May 19, 1958, in Buffalo, New York, Wolfley made his mark both on and off the field. After retiring from football, he transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, becoming a beloved color analyst for the Steelers. Known for his strength, versatility, and larger-than-life personality, Wolfley also pursued interests in boxing, martial arts, and other sports, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the sports world.
Early Life and Education
Craig Wolfley was born on March 18, 1961, in St. Paul, Minnesota, and grew up in the small town of White Bear Lake. His early life revolved around his love for sports, which eventually paved the way for his remarkable football career. From a young age, Craig displayed a passion for athletics and quickly became involved in a variety of sports, with football emerging as his true calling.
Wolfley attended White Bear Lake Area High School, where he quickly gained recognition for his athleticism. In high school, he excelled in football, wrestling, and track. His versatility as an athlete laid the foundation for his future success in football, where he would develop into a formidable offensive lineman. His talent and dedication caught the attention of college recruiters, setting the stage for his college education and career.
After graduating from high school, Wolfley pursued higher education at the University of Pittsburgh. His college years were integral to his development as a football player. At Pitt, Wolfley played for the Pittsburgh Panthers football team, and under the guidance of head coach Foge Fazio, he became a standout player on the offensive line. During his time at Pitt, Craig further honed his skills, solidifying his reputation as a formidable and reliable lineman.
His time at the University of Pittsburgh also gave him the opportunity to play at a higher level of competition, facing off against some of the best players in college football. Wolfley’s exceptional performances in college led to him becoming a highly coveted prospect for the National Football League (NFL), setting him up for a successful transition into professional football.
Personal Life
Outside of football, Craig Wolfley is known for his strong work ethic, personal discipline, and commitment to his family. Over the years, he has cultivated a reputation as a family-oriented individual, balancing the demands of a professional sports career with his responsibilities as a husband and father. Wolfley’s personal life, though often private, reflects his deep appreciation for the values of loyalty and hard work. He has long been a supporter of various charitable causes and remains involved in his community.
Known for his approachable and down-to-earth personality, Wolfley made an effort to stay grounded despite his success. His easygoing demeanor off the field contrasts with the fierce determination and focus he displayed during his playing career, further endearing him to fans and fellow players alike.
After retiring from professional football, Wolfley became involved in radio and television broadcasting, where he has continued to engage with the public and stay involved in the sports world. His personal life has been marked by a consistent desire to help others, whether it’s through community work or mentoring young athletes. His passion for helping others, combined with his sporting background, makes him a respected figure both in the Pittsburgh area and across the sports world.
Family
Craig Wolfley is married to his wife, Patricia, and they have children together. While Wolfley is relatively private about his family life, he has occasionally shared details of his family through public appearances or interviews. The Wolfley family has remained supportive throughout Craig’s career, and his wife has been a steadfast presence in his life, providing support throughout his journey in the NFL and beyond.
His relationship with his children has been important to him, and Craig has been known to prioritize family over everything else, even during his busy career. As a father, he has always made an effort to set a positive example for his children, emphasizing the importance of hard work, respect, and perseverance.
Throughout his career and retirement, Wolfley has remained close to his family. His success, both on and off the field, can be attributed to the solid foundation provided by his parents and family members. Their unwavering support has played a crucial role in his journey, from his early days in White Bear Lake to his rise in the NFL.
Detailed Bio Table
| Full Name | Craig Alan Wolfley |
|---|---|
| Born | May 19, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Buffalo, New York, U.S. |
| Died | March 10, 2025 |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 265 lb (120 kg) |
| Parents’ Names | Unknown |
| Spouse | Faith Wolfley |
| Children | Megan, Hannah, Esther, Kyle, CJ, Max |
| Net Worth (2025) | Approx. $5 million |
Career
Craig Wolfley’s career as a professional football player is one marked by hard work, perseverance, and commitment. His career began when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1980 NFL Draft. Wolfley was selected in the 10th round of the draft as the 261st overall pick, a testament to the Steelers’ belief in his potential despite being a relatively low draft choice.
Wolfley played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1980 to 1989, spending the entirety of his NFL career with the team. As an offensive lineman, Wolfley was known for his toughness, versatility, and reliability. He was an integral part of the Steelers’ offensive line during a period of transformation for the team, helping to protect quarterbacks and clear paths for running backs.
During his time with the Steelers, Wolfley became known for his relentless work ethic and his ability to contribute to both the passing and running game. His contributions were essential to the success of the Steelers during the 1980s, and his leadership on the field was invaluable. Although he never earned Pro Bowl honors, Wolfley’s dedication and consistency made him a key player on the Steelers’ roster.
One of the defining characteristics of Wolfley’s career was his ability to adapt to different positions along the offensive line. This flexibility allowed the Steelers to utilize him in various roles as needed, showcasing his versatility and making him a valuable asset to the team. His tenacity and willingness to do whatever was necessary to help the team succeed earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates.
After retiring from professional football in 1989, Wolfley transitioned into a career as a sports broadcaster. He became a regular analyst for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ radio broadcasts, providing commentary and insights based on his extensive knowledge of the game. Wolfley also became a popular figure in Pittsburgh’s media landscape, using his platform to connect with fans and continue his involvement in the sport.
In addition to his broadcasting career, Wolfley has also remained active in the local Pittsburgh community. He has become a respected advocate for various causes, including those supporting youth athletics, education, and local charities. His passion for helping others and his commitment to staying involved in football in some capacity has made him a beloved figure in Pittsburgh.
Craig Wolfley’s legacy as both a player and a broadcaster is marked by his dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the city of Pittsburgh. Through his work on and off the field, he has built a reputation as a hardworking and humble individual who values the importance of teamwork, family, and community.
Latest News
As of March 2025, the latest news about Craig Wolfley revolves around his unfortunate passing. Wolfley, who was beloved by Steelers fans for his time as an offensive lineman and his subsequent work as a broadcaster, passed away at the age of 66. His death has sent shockwaves through the Pittsburgh community, where he was widely regarded not only as a football legend but also as a warm and engaging personality. Tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans have flooded social media, celebrating his life and legacy. The Steelers and the wider sports community are mourning the loss of a true icon.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Link |
|---|---|---|
| @CraigWolfley | Twitter Profile | |
| @craigwolfleyofficial | Instagram Profile |
Physical Appearance and Height
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) and weighing 265 pounds (120 kg), Craig Wolfley was a physically imposing figure both on and off the football field. His large frame and strength were key assets during his career as an offensive lineman. Wolfley’s physical presence made him a standout player in the NFL, where his role as a blocker required immense size, power, and durability. Even after his playing days, his robust physique was a hallmark of his persona in sports commentary and public appearances.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Craig Wolfley’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $5 million. This wealth is largely derived from his successful career in the NFL, where he played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings. After his football career, Wolfley transitioned into broadcasting, which further bolstered his income. Additionally, his involvement in various business ventures, including running the Wolfpack Boxing Club, contributed to his financial success. Wolfley’s investments in his post-football career allowed him to remain a respected figure in sports media, ensuring that his legacy continued to prosper even after his death.
People also ask
Where is Craig Wolfley from?
Craig Wolfley is from Buffalo, New York, USA.
Who is Dale Wolfley’s brother?
Craig Wolfley is the brother of Dale Wolfley.
Where is the Craig family from?
The Craig family name has origins in Scotland and Ireland, with many descendants in the United States and Canada.
How old is Ron Wolfley?
Ron Wolfley was born on October 14, 1962, making him 62 years old as of 2024.
