The NFL Network will be airing a special on the Steelers 1974 draft class tonight titled “Caught in the Draft – 1974: The Future is Now”. The program airs from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm est, and replays at 1:00 am. The show is described as a behind the scenes story of how Pittsburgh drafted four future Hall of Famers in one draft.

The 1974 Steelers draft was not only the best draft class the Steelers ever saw, it was the best by any team ever. With the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th picks the team landed future hall of fame inductees Lynn Swann, Jack Lambert, John Stallworth, and Mike Webster.

In between Stallworth and Webster, UCLA DB Jimmy Allen was selected with the 100th pick and went on to have a very productive career with the Steelers, and later the Lions through 1981. He had 31 career interceptions.

Also noteworthy- Donnie Shell was signed as an UDFA after the draft, and went on to be a finalist for the hall of fame nomination. Playing for the Steelers through 1987, he totaled 51 career interceptions. Thanks for stopping by, and as always, be sure to share with your friends.