Penn State radio commentator Steve Jones has been credited with helping save the life of former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jack Ham after the four-time Super Bowl champion suffered a medical emergency in Seattle on Saturday.
Ham, 77, was taken to the University of Washington Medical Center, where he was reported to be in stable condition following the incident at Husky Stadium.
Steve Jones Makes Crucial Intervention
Penn State head coach Matt Campbell revealed that Jones, Ham’s broadcast partner, made a heroic effort when the former NFL star experienced the medical emergency while arriving at the stadium ahead of a radio broadcast.
Ham was subsequently transported across the street to the University of Washington Medical Center for treatment.
Speaking after Penn State’s 28-25 victory, Campbell credited Jones with playing a crucial role in the positive update on Ham’s condition.
“If it’s not for Steve and what he did, I don’t know if we would have as good news as we do right now,” Campbell said.
The coach also expressed gratitude to the University of Washington, particularly its athletic director and emergency response team, for their assistance.
“I would also thank the University of Washington, their athletic director, their emergency team. They were incredible, they were outstanding,” he added.
Campbell Describes Difficult Day for Penn State
Campbell began his post-game news conference by describing the incident as “a gut-wrenching day for Penn State football.”
The coach disclosed that he had informed his players about Ham’s condition before the game, highlighting the significance of the former linebacker’s contribution to the university’s football programme.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Penn State secured a 28-25 victory, with Campbell praising his players for their performance.
“The courage of our kids to play with what Jack Ham means to Penn State football, how that guy played the game, how that guy to this day still serves our football program, it was awesome to be able to go win the football game for him and his family,” he said.
Campbell added that the team’s thoughts and prayers remained with Ham as he continued receiving medical care.
“Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with him for a full recovery,” he said.
Jack Ham’s Remarkable Football Career
Ham established himself as one of the most accomplished linebackers in American football during his playing career.
He was an All-American at Penn State in 1970 before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he spent 12 seasons in the NFL.
During his professional career, Ham earned eight Pro Bowl selections and won four Super Bowl championships with the Steelers.
His achievements earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
Beyond his playing career, Ham maintained his connection with Penn State football, serving as a radio analyst for the Nittany Lions since 2000.
