Tennessee Football Family Mourns the Loss of College Football Hall of Famer Steve Kiner

The Tennessee football family is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic legends. Steve Kiner, a fierce linebacker who defined toughness and excellence on the gridiron, has passed away at the age of 77. His death leaves a deep void, not only in the hearts of the Volunteer faithful but also across the broader college football community where he had long been revered.

A two-time All-American, a College Football Hall of Fame inductee, and a foundational piece of Tennessee’s storied football tradition, Kiner’s legacy is one built on grit, heart, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. His contributions helped set the standard for generations of Volunteers to come, and today, Tennessee honors not just the player he was, but the man he became after the roar of the crowd faded.

Born on June 12, 1947, in Tampa, Florida, Steve Kiner grew up with a passion for sports and competition. From a young age, it was clear he had the instincts of a natural athlete. His toughness was forged early, both on and off the field, preparing him for a future that would forever link his name to football glory.

When he arrived at the University of Tennessee in the mid-1960s, Kiner quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Under the leadership of head coach Doug Dickey, the Volunteers were rebuilding their program into a national powerhouse, and Kiner became one of its brightest stars.

Kiner’s impact was immediate. Playing linebacker with an unmatched ferocity, he quickly earned a reputation as one of the Southeastern Conference’s most feared defenders. Kiner led Tennessee to an SEC championship in 1967, laying the groundwork for his back-to-back All-America honors in 1968 and 1969.

“Steve Kiner was the ultimate competitor,” said former Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer. “When you talk about great linebackers in Tennessee history, you start with him. He played with a level of passion and toughness that symbolized what Tennessee football is all about.”

His instincts, combined with an unrelenting motor, made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Whether it was flying to the football, delivering bone-rattling tackles, or dropping into coverage, Kiner did it all—and did it at an elite level.

Kiner’s accolades during his time at Tennessee are staggering. Along with his All-American selections, he was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for numerous national awards. In 1999, his career achievements were immortalized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, forever securing his place among the sport’s greatest heroes.

Even decades after his final game in orange and white, Kiner’s name continued to resonate with Volunteer fans. He was frequently mentioned among the program’s all-time greats, alongside names like Reggie White, Al Wilson, and Peyton Manning.

Following his legendary college career, Kiner was selected in the third round of the 1970 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He played for several teams during his professional career, including the New England Patriots and Houston Oilers. While injuries limited some of his professional success, his toughness and intelligence earned him the respect of coaches and teammates throughout the league.

After his football career ended, Kiner transitioned into the next chapter of his life with the same intensity that defined him as a player. He spent years in various business endeavors and remained connected to the game he loved, often speaking at Tennessee events and mentoring younger players.

News of Kiner’s passing sparked an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the Tennessee football family. Former players, coaches, and fans took to social media and local media outlets to share their memories and express their condolences.

“Steve Kiner embodied what it meant to be a Volunteer,” said Tennessee athletic director Danny White. “His tenacity on the field, his leadership in the locker room, and his loyalty to Tennessee were unmatched. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family during this difficult time.”

Former Tennessee linebacker Al Wilson, himself a College Football Hall of Famer, shared a heartfelt tribute: “Steve paved the way for all of us who followed. We play this game on the shoulders of giants, and Steve Kiner was a giant. Rest easy, legend.”

More than his stats, his awards, or even his championship rings, Steve Kiner’s legacy at Tennessee is defined by the standard he set. He taught future generations what it meant to wear the orange and white. He embodied the Volunteer spirit of perseverance, loyalty, and toughness.

Tennessee has produced many great players over the years, but few captured the spirit of Rocky Top like Steve Kiner. His impact will be felt every fall Saturday when the Pride of the Southland Band plays “Rocky Top” and Volunteer fans fill Neyland Stadium with 100,000 strong.

Future linebackers at Tennessee will continue to walk in Kiner’s footsteps, striving to reach the bar he set so high over 50 years ago.

Among the countless stories shared in the wake of Kiner’s passing are those that paint a picture of the man beyond the helmet and shoulder pads.

One former teammate recalled a story from 1968:
“We were playing a tough game against Alabama, and things weren’t going our way. During halftime, Coach Dickey was trying to rally the troops, but it was Steve who stood up and said, ‘We’re not leaving this field without our heads held high.’ That second half, he played like a man possessed. We didn’t win that day, but none of us ever forgot the fire he brought.”

Another former Volunteer linebacker said Kiner once reached out to him after a particularly rough game as a freshman.
“He told me, ‘This place will eat you alive if you let it. But if you give it your heart, it’ll give you a family for life.’ That meant everything to me coming from a guy like him.”

In the coming days, Tennessee Athletics plans to honor Steve Kiner’s memory in several ways. A moment of silence will be held before the Volunteers’ next home game, and there are discussions underway to create a permanent tribute inside Neyland Stadium, ensuring future generations of Volunteers know the name and legacy of Steve Kiner.

Fans are encouraged to share their memories and condolences through the Tennessee Athletics website, which has set up a special tribute page in his honor.

As Tennessee mourns the loss of one of its true legends, it also celebrates a life well-lived. Steve Kiner left an indelible mark not only on the football field but also in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to know him or watch him play.

He was the kind of player who didn’t just wear the jersey—he represented it. He made it mean something more. He made Tennessee proud.

And in return, Tennessee will never forget Steve Kiner.

Rest in peace, No. 49. Your spirit lives on in every Volunteer who dares to dream, fight, and wear the orange with pride.