American · Vidalia, Georgia · Born 10 April 1948American football Hall of Fame cornerback who dominated the 1970s with the Pittsburgh Steelers, winning four Super Bowls and revolutionizing defensive play
Melvin Cornell Blount was born in Vidalia, Georgia in 1948. The Steelers selected him in the third round of the 1970 Draft. His physical style of press coverage was so dominant — using his size and strength to redirect receivers for 40 yards — that the NFL introduced the 5-yard chuck rule specifically to limit him. He won four Super Bowls. He recorded 57 career interceptions — among the most by any cornerback. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1989. He later opened a youth home in Pennsylvania.
Physical cornerback play, four Super Bowl victories, and inspiring the 'Mel Blount Rule' limiting contact with receivers
How They Played
Physical, aggressive cornerback known for jamming receivers at line of scrimmage and devastating hits
Lasting Impact
Transformed cornerback position with physical style, key member of Steel Curtain defense, rule changes made because of his dominant play
Career Honours
- Super Bowl 4x
- Defensive Player of Year 1975
- Pro Bowl 5x
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year 1975
- All-Pro First Team 4x
- NFL 75th Anniversary Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary Team
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 1970–1983 | 200 |
American Athletes