Mark Bruener is a former American football tight end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons. He was born on September 16, 1972, in Aberdeen, Washington, and attended the University of Washington, where he played college football for the Huskies.
Bruener was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft, and he spent the first nine seasons of his career with the team. He quickly established himself as one of the best blocking tight ends in the league, and he was a key part of the Steelers' success during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
In his first season with the Steelers, Bruener caught just six passes for 44 yards and one touchdown, but he quickly became a reliable target for quarterback Neil O'Donnell. Over the next few seasons, Bruener's role in the offense expanded, and he became a valuable asset in both the passing and running games.
Despite his success as a blocker, Bruener was also a capable receiver. He finished his career with 152 receptions for 1,546 yards and 18 touchdowns, and he was particularly effective in the red zone. He also played in 187 games, starting 153 of them, and he was known for his durability and toughness.
After nine seasons with the Steelers, Bruener signed with the Houston Texans in 2004. He spent the final five seasons of his career with the team, and he continued to be a reliable blocker and occasional receiver. He retired after the 2008 season, having played in 194 games and caught 152 passes for 1,546 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Throughout his career, Bruener was known for his work ethic, leadership, and toughness. He was a respected veteran in the locker room, and he was often called upon to mentor younger players. He was also active in the community, and he was named the Steelers' Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2003 for his charitable work.
Overall, Mark Bruener had a long and successful career in the NFL, and he is remembered as one of the best blocking tight ends of his era. He was a key part of two successful franchises, and he left a lasting impact on the game of football.
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