Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kordell Stewart is the subject of a new HBO documentary titled "Kordell Stewart/Slash & Burn," now streaming on HBO Max. The film revisits Stewart's unique NFL career, which began with his versatile "Slash" role as a quarterback, receiver, running back, and even punter, before he became the team's full-time starter.
Career Highlights and Challenges
Stewart led the Steelers to two AFC Championship game appearances, in the 1997 and 2001 seasons. His 1997 campaign was historic: he became the first player in NFL history to throw 20 touchdowns and rush for 10 in the same season, and the first to throw three touchdowns and run for two scores in multiple games. That year, the Steelers overcame large deficits in several games, including a memorable overtime victory over the New England Patriots in Week 16, which Stewart calls the best moment of his professional career.
Stewart's tenure also included a difficult period after an unfounded rumor surfaced in 1998, alleging lewd conduct in a public park. The rumor, started by a local police officer, lingered despite having no merit and coincided with a 7-9 season. Stewart was benched in 1999 and briefly returned to a utility role before reclaiming the starting job in 2000, guiding Pittsburgh to a 9-4 record after an 0-3 start.
2001 Season and AFC Championship Loss
The 2001 season saw Stewart pilot the Steelers to a 13-3 record, the franchise's best since 1978. He set a single-season team record for completion percentage, earned a Pro Bowl selection, finished fourth in MVP voting, and was named the Steelers' MVP. Pittsburgh defeated the Baltimore Ravens in the divisional round but fell at home to the eventual Super Bowl champion New England Patriots in the AFC Championship game. The Patriots were later penalized for stealing opponents' signals, including Pittsburgh's.
Both of Stewart's AFC Championship losses came against Hall of Fame quarterbacks: John Elway in 1997 and Tom Brady in 2001. Stewart acknowledges the pain of those defeats but notes the caliber of the opponents.
Legacy and Hall of Honor Hopes
Stewart hopes fans remember the excitement of his play, particularly the 1997 season when he formed a prolific offensive trio with running back Jerome Bettis (1,665 rushing yards) and wide receiver Yancey Thigpen (1,398 receiving yards). He believes his contributions warrant induction into the Steelers Hall of Honor, a milestone he expects to witness.
The documentary explores both the on-field achievements and the off-field rumor that shadowed Stewart for decades, offering his perspective on a career defined by versatility and resilience.
