Originally Posted by
Patler
I think Bradshaw has always felt that the Steelers never fully appreciated or respected him. He was a 5 year vet, and they tried to replace him as a starter with Joe Gilliam. I don't think he ever got over that. For most of his career, the media portrayed Bradshaw as a mere cog in the machine driven by the defense and the running game. Even in the passing game, Swann and Stallworth were portrayed as flawless, Bradshaw as the country rube who chucked it up in their general direction. The team did nothing to try to change the public's image of Bradshaw. Bradshaw has commented to the effect that the team didn't back him in those matters.
Personally, I think Bradshaw was a good leader and a tough SOB who fit the Steeler mold quite well at the time. As for his QB skills ... just so-so, but with a very strong arm. In spite of the HOF and other awards, I don't think he ever performed individually as well as he wanted to or thought he could have, and in the twisted logic common among pro athletes, he blames the organization for not being viewed as the greatest QB ever.