A viral death hoax had football fans worried this week but the Pittsburgh Steelers have confirmed that "Mean" Joe Greene, a four-time Super Bowl winner, is very much alive.
Rumours began spreading across social media on Friday, with a false report claiming that the 79-year-old NFL icon had passed away.
However, TMZ reported that it was nothing more than a death hoax that spreads fast on social media and causes unnecessary panic among fans.
The Pittsburgh Steelers shut down the speculation after being contacted by TMZ and confirming that the report is "not accurate."
"Mean" Joe Greene is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive linemen to ever play the game.
During his 13-year career with the Steelers, Joe Greene recorded 77.5 sacks, 16 fumble recoveries and one interception.
He won four Super Bowls and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice, received the NFL Man of the Year award and was selected to the Pro Bowl 10 times.
