The Tennessee Football Family Mourns the Loss of Legendary Linebacker Steve Kiner at 77

Tennessee Football Family Mourns the Loss of Legendary Linebacker Steve Kiner at 77

The University of Tennessee community and the broader college football world are mourning the loss of a true legend. Steve Kiner, a towering figure in the Volunteers’ football legacy and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, passed away at the age of 77. His death marks the end of an era for Tennessee football and leaves behind a legacy that spans generations.

Steve Kiner was more than just a football player. He was a leader, an icon, and a symbol of grit and determination on the gridiron. Born on June 12, 1947, Kiner grew up with a fierce competitive spirit and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His love for football was evident early on, and by the time he arrived in Knoxville in the late 1960s, it was clear the Volunteers had something special on their hands.

Kiner played linebacker at Tennessee from 1967 to 1969, where he quickly established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the nation. He was known for his aggressive style, bone-rattling hits, and instinctive playmaking. Teammates and coaches often described him as the emotional heart of the defense, someone who could lift the entire team with his energy and leadership.

Under head coach Doug Dickey, Kiner helped transform Tennessee’s defense into one of the most feared units in college football. During his three years with the Volunteers, Kiner earned All-SEC honors multiple times and was named a consensus All-American in both 1968 and 1969. In 1969, he was also awarded the SEC’s Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his impact on the field and his leadership in the locker room.

But Kiner’s influence stretched far beyond statistics and accolades. His presence brought a sense of pride and unity to the Tennessee football family. He was a player who embraced the values of toughness, resilience, and loyalty — values that defined the Volunteers’ program and continue to inspire players to this day.

Fans of Tennessee football will remember Kiner for his fearless playing style and his unmatched passion for the game. Perhaps his most memorable moments came in rivalry games, where he seemed to elevate his performance to a higher level. Whether it was taking down an Alabama runner in the backfield or firing up his teammates before a showdown with Georgia, Kiner thrived in high-pressure moments and relished the responsibility of leading his team into battle.

His greatness was formally recognized in 1999, when he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. That honor solidified his place among the pantheon of college football’s all-time greats and confirmed what Tennessee fans had known for decades: Steve Kiner was one of the best to ever don the orange and white.

After his college career, Kiner went on to play professionally in the NFL. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1970 and played for several teams, including the New England Patriots and Houston Oilers, over the course of his career. While his time in the NFL was marked by ups and downs, Kiner never lost the tenacity and drive that defined his college years. He brought the same fire and competitive edge to the professional level, earning the respect of coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.

In retirement, Kiner remained close to the Tennessee football program. He was a frequent guest at alumni events, fundraisers, and games at Neyland Stadium. He mentored young players, shared stories from his playing days, and reminded everyone of the proud tradition they were a part of. His bond with Tennessee was unbreakable, and he continued to represent the program with pride and dignity long after his playing days were over.

News of Kiner’s passing sent waves of grief through the Tennessee community. Former teammates, coaches, fans, and players took to social media and various platforms to express their condolences and share heartfelt memories. The Tennessee Athletic Department released a statement praising Kiner’s contributions to the university and celebrating the incredible legacy he leaves behind.

“He was the embodiment of Volunteer spirit,” said one former teammate. “Tough, relentless, and deeply committed to his team. Steve wasn’t just a great player—he was a great man.”

As Tennessee fans reflect on Kiner’s life and career, they remember not only the tackles and the accolades, but also the passion, the pride, and the fierce love he had for the game. His legacy is etched into the fabric of Tennessee football history, a legacy built on courage, loyalty, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of teamwork.

At Neyland Stadium, where Kiner once roamed the field like a warrior, fans and alumni will no doubt honor his memory in the months to come. Moments of silence, commemorative patches, and stories shared across generations will ensure that Steve Kiner’s name remains a central part of the Volunteers’ storied history.

For those who knew him personally, Kiner’s passing is not just the loss of a football icon — it’s the loss of a friend, a mentor, and a brother in arms. His influence was felt not only through his achievements on the field but also in the lives he touched off of it. In every sense of the word, Steve Kiner was a Volunteer — a man who gave everything he had for his team, his university, and the game he loved.

As the Tennessee Football Family comes together to grieve this loss, they also celebrate a life well lived. Steve Kiner leaves behind a powerful legacy of toughness, heart, and dedication. He reminded us all what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves — to fight for every inch, to honor those who came before us, and to inspire those who come after.

Rest in peace, Steve Kiner. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of Volunteers everywhere.