“Steelers Usher in New Era Behind the Mic — Name Replacement for Beloved Commentator Craig Wolfley After His Tragic Passing”
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a franchise defined by tradition, toughness, and an unshakable bond between its team and the community that loves it. That bond doesn’t just exist on the field or in the stands—it lives through the voices that bring every snap, every hit, and every triumph into the homes and hearts of Steelers Nation. For decades, Craig Wolfley was that voice. A former offensive lineman turned beloved color commentator, Wolfley brought passion, humor, and an unfiltered authenticity to Steelers broadcasts that made fans feel like they were watching the game with an old friend. When news of his tragic passing broke, the Steelers family was rocked. Now, in the wake of that emotional loss, the team has named a new voice to carry on the sacred tradition of narrating Steelers football to the world.
The announcement has brought a wave of emotions—gratitude for Wolfley’s unforgettable legacy and cautious optimism for the future. The team has named longtime Pittsburgh broadcaster and former Steeler Max Starks as the new color commentator, a decision that blends familiarity with promise. Starks is no stranger to Steelers Nation. As a key member of two Super Bowl-winning teams and a player who lined up with grit and poise on the offensive line for nearly a decade, he knows the black and gold inside and out. His experience as a lineman mirrors Wolfley’s, making him a natural fit in the booth. But it’s not just about football knowledge—it’s about chemistry, voice, and the ability to tell a story that resonates.
Starks steps into a role that’s not only prestigious, but deeply personal. Craig Wolfley wasn’t just a commentator—he was family. Fans didn’t merely listen to his words, they felt them. Whether he was marveling at a bone-crushing tackle or getting emotional over a player’s growth, his voice was the heartbeat of the Steelers’ radio experience. His passing left a void that can’t be filled, only honored. And that’s exactly what Starks intends to do. In his first public comments following the announcement, he spoke with reverence for Wolfley and the legacy he inherits. “Craig was one of a kind,” Starks said. “To follow in his footsteps is an honor I don’t take lightly. I hope to carry forward the passion he brought to every broadcast and stay true to the fans who loved him.”
It’s a tall task, stepping into a role that’s as emotional as it is technical. But Starks isn’t a stranger to pressure. As a former team captain, he’s used to leadership and expectations. His post-playing career has included stints as a sideline analyst, podcast host, and guest contributor for NFL media outlets. Fans have already heard his insights and stories, often rich with behind-the-scenes details that only a former player can provide. His baritone voice, calm demeanor, and intelligent takes have made him a fan favorite even before this latest role. Now, with a full-time seat in the booth, he has the platform to shape the next generation of Steelers broadcasts.
The transition comes at a pivotal time for the Steelers organization. With young talent surging through the roster and hopes high for a return to postseason glory, the team’s trajectory is trending upward. On the field, the Steelers are looking to build around quarterback Russell Wilson, dynamic playmakers like George Pickens and Najee Harris, and a defense that remains among the league’s fiercest. Off the field, the voices telling that story matter more than ever. In an age of social media snippets and highlight reels, the longform storytelling of game-day radio holds a unique place. It offers texture, emotion, and a sense of continuity—a lifeline to tradition. That’s where Max Starks’ new role becomes even more vital.
In many ways, the appointment feels like the passing of a torch. Wolfley, who learned under the legendary Myron Cope, brought an irreplaceable charm and authenticity. His malapropisms, sideline anecdotes, and raw emotion made him beloved even beyond the Pittsburgh market. Now, Starks will have his own opportunity to build a legacy—one informed by respect for the past and excitement for the future. As the Steelers embark on another chapter, fans will get to experience it not just through touchdowns and tackles, but through the rich narration of a man who wore the uniform and now wears the headset.
Fans and fellow broadcasters have reacted with an outpouring of support for the decision. On social media, tributes to Wolfley continue to pour in, even as congratulations flood Max Starks’ inbox. Former teammates have shared their belief that he’s the right man for the job, calling him “thoughtful,” “intelligent,” and “unshakably Steeler.” The consensus among the fan base is one of hope—a belief that while no one can ever replace Craig Wolfley, Starks will honor him by carrying the standard with pride.
The Steelers organization, known for loyalty and consistency, took its time in making this decision. Insiders say that team officials, including President Art Rooney II and Head Coach Mike Tomlin, were personally involved in the process. They reportedly valued not only broadcasting skills but also the ability to connect with the community, relate to the players, and embody the values that make the Steelers more than just a football team. In Starks, they saw someone who checks every box.
As the regular season draws closer, preparations are already underway. Starks will join veteran play-by-play voice Bill Hillgrove in the booth, creating a tandem that blends experience with fresh perspective. The broadcast team is also expected to incorporate more player-driven insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and analysis rooted in the modern game. It’s part of an ongoing effort to deepen the connection between the team and its fans—not just during wins and losses, but in the way the game is understood and felt.
For Steelers Nation, this moment is bittersweet. The sound of Craig Wolfley’s voice may be absent from the booth, but his presence will never fade. His laughter, wisdom, and unwavering love for the Steelers live on in the memories of those who heard him, and in the heart of every game-day broadcast. With Max Starks stepping in, there is a sense of continuity—of someone who understands what it means to wear the black and gold, to battle in the trenches, and now to tell the story from above the field.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes—and ears—will be on the new voice in the booth. And while no one can ever replace Craig Wolfley, Steelers Nation stands united in support of the next man up. Max Starks is ready for the challenge, prepared to carry the torch, and eager to bring the sights and sounds of Steelers football to life for fans across the globe. It’s the start of a new chapter, written with reverence for the past and belief in the future. The Steelers have found their next storyteller. The booth has a new voice. The game goes on—and the spirit of Craig Wolfley echoes in every word.
