India, March 20 -- Thousands of Pittsburgh Steelers and NFL fans panicked on Friday. "Did 'Mean' Joe Greene die?" one of the them asked on social media after claims about the Super Bowl winner's passing surfaced.

As fans paid tribute, the Steelers clarified. The franchise told TMZ Sports that the report is 'not accurate'. The speculation began circulating on social media after a false report claimed the 79-year-old had passed away.

The clarification brought relief to fans across the NFL. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive linemen in league history, Greene was a cornerstone of the Steelers' dominant 'Steel Curtain' defense.

Over a 13-year career, Greene recorded 77.5 sacks, 16 fumble recoveries and one interception. He als...