Jim Bradshaw obit

Jim Bradshaw Has Died

 He was not on the list.

James Alfred Bradshaw, a former NFL safety remembered for his toughness, reliability, and quiet leadership in the Pittsburgh Steelers secondary, passed away on September 16, 2026. He was 87 years old. This was announced by his nephew on social media.

Born January 13, 1939, in St. Clairsville, Ohio , Bradshaw grew up with a deep love for sports and competition. He graduated from St. Clairsville High School in 1958 and played college football for the Chattanooga Mocs; where he developed into a disciplined, physical defensive back who caught the attention of professional scouts .

Bradshaw was selected in both the NFL and AFL drafts in 1963—18th round by the Pittsburgh Steelers and 20th round by the Boston Patriots . He ultimately joined the Steelers, playing five seasons in Pittsburgh from 1963 to 1967. During his career, Bradshaw recorded 11 interceptions, 9 fumble recoveries, 493 total return yards, and 4 touchdowns—numbers that reflected his instinctive playmaking and ability to change momentum in critical moments . He spent the 1968 season with the Cleveland Browns as an offseason and practice‑squad member, rounding out a professional career defined by consistency and hard work.

At 6 feet 2 inches and 205 pounds, Bradshaw brought size and strength to the safety position, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike for his physical style and dependable presence in the defensive backfield .