Steinberg began his career in football as a scout for the Los Angeles Rams in the 1960s. His keen eye for talent and understanding of the game quickly earned him a reputation as one of the best scouts in the league. He was instrumental in the Rams' success during this period, helping to build a team that consistently competed at the highest level.
In 1975, Steinberg moved to the New England Patriots, where he served as the Director of Player Personnel. During his tenure, the Patriots made it to the Super Bowl in 1985, a testament to Steinberg's ability to assemble a competitive team.
Steinberg's success with the Patriots caught the attention of the New Orleans Saints, who hired him as their General Manager in 1986. However, his tenure with the Saints was short-lived, as he left the team after just one season to join the New York Jets.
As the General Manager of the Jets, Steinberg was tasked with turning around a team that had struggled in the years prior to his arrival. He made several key moves, including drafting future Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin and hiring head coach Bruce Coslet. Despite facing numerous challenges, including a battle with stomach cancer, Steinberg remained committed to his role with the Jets until his death in 1995.
Throughout his career, Steinberg was known for his ability to identify and develop talent. He was instrumental in the careers of numerous players, many of whom went on to have successful careers in the NFL. His contributions to the sport of football were recognized in 1994 when he was awarded the George Young NFL Executive of the Year award.
In addition to his work in the NFL, Steinberg also made significant contributions to college football. He served as the Director of Player Personnel for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) from 1963 to 1965, helping to build a team that won the Rose Bowl in 1966.
Despite his untimely death, Steinberg's legacy lives on in the teams and players he helped to shape. His contributions to the sport of football, both at the college and professional level, have left an indelible mark on the game.
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