Who Is Steve Tasker?
Steve Tasker is a former American football player widely regarded as one of the greatest special teams players in NFL history.
He played primarily for the Buffalo Bills, becoming a seven-time Pro Bowler and a key part of the Bills dynasty that reached four straight Super Bowls (1990–1993).
Tasker’s unmatched speed, tackling, leadership, and special-teams excellence made him one of the most respected and influential players of his era.
Steve Tasker Biography Overview
Full Name: Steven Jay Tasker
Born: 10 April 1962
Age: 63 (as of 2025)
Birthplace: Smith Center, Kansas, USA
Nationality: American
Profession: Former NFL Player, Sports Broadcaster
Position: Special Teams / Wide Receiver
Teams: Houston Oilers (1985–1986), Buffalo Bills (1986–1997)
Height: 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)
Weight: 183 lbs (83 kg)
Early Life & Family Background
Steve Tasker grew up in Kansas, where he played multiple sports, including track, football, and basketball.
He was known for his athleticism, toughness, and competitive nature from a young age.
Parents & Family Life
He came from a supportive middle-class family that encouraged academics and sports.
Tasker later moved to Illinois, where he became a high-school football standout.
Education & College Career
College Football Path:
Steve Tasker played at Dodge City Community College before transferring to:
✔ Northwestern University
At Northwestern, he played both:
Wide Receiver
Running Back
Kick returner
Despite being undersized, he impressed coaches with his intensity and explosiveness.
NFL Career
Houston Oilers (1985–1986)
Tasker was drafted in the 9th round of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers.
He played there for two seasons before being claimed on waivers by the Buffalo Bills.
Buffalo Bills (1986–1997) – Legendary Career
This is where Tasker became an NFL icon.
✔ 7× Pro Bowl Selection (Special Teams)
✔ 5× All-Pro
✔ Considered the greatest gunner/special-teams player in league history
✔ Key contributor to 4 consecutive Super Bowl runs
Tasker wasn’t a typical star by stats — he became a legend through impactful special-teams play, including:
Elite punt/kick coverage
Forcing fumbles
Blocked kicks
Clutch tackles
Leadership and intensity
He also occasionally played wide receiver, showing versatility.
His work ethic and explosive athleticism defined the Bills’ dynasty era.
Career Accomplishments
✔ NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
✔ Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame inductee
✔ Hall of Fame Semifinalist multiple times
✔ Revered by coaches and players league-wide
✔ Acknowledged by many analysts as “Hall of Fame worthy”
Although he has not yet been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, many argue that special-teams players deserve more recognition — and Tasker is always the first name mentioned.
Playing Style & Strengths
✔ Elite gunner on special teams
✔ Lightning-fast acceleration
✔ Hard-hitting tackler
✔ Smart, disciplined, instinctive
✔ Team-first attitude
✔ Leadership on and off the field
Tasker redefined what special-teams excellence means in the NFL.
Career Statistics (NFL)
Although his role wasn’t measured by traditional stats, here are his key numbers:
Games Played: 160
Receptions: 51
Receiving Yards: 779
Touchdowns: 9 (receiving & special teams combined)
Blocked Kicks: Multiple (not fully tracked in early NFL stats)
Forced Fumbles: Several game-changing plays
Stats don’t reflect his true impact — his value came through momentum-shifting plays.
Post-NFL Career – Broadcasting
After retirement, Steve Tasker became a respected NFL broadcaster.
Networks he worked with:
CBS Sports
MSG Western New York
Buffalo Bills Media
He remains a strong voice in analyzing NFL special teams and Buffalo Bills football.
Personal Life
Steve Tasker is married and has children, including:
Luke Tasker
Former CFL player (Hamilton Tiger-Cats) and sports broadcaster.
Tasker enjoys:
Family time
Community charity work
Public speaking
Football analysis
He is known as humble, intelligent, and deeply respected by teammates.
Net Worth (2025)
Estimated Net Worth: $4–6 Million
Income Sources:
NFL salary (career earnings)
Broadcasting career
Endorsements
Speaking engagements
Latest News (2024–2025)
Continues working in Buffalo Bills media coverage
Regularly appears on NFL commentary and radio shows
Ongoing Hall of Fame discussions among analysts
Frequently attends Bills alumni events and ceremonies
Conclusion
Steve Tasker’s story is a shining example of how determination, heart, and special-teams excellence can create a legendary NFL career.
Though not a traditional star, he became one of the most respected players in league history and a symbol of the Buffalo Bills’ golden era.
He remains the greatest special-teams player ever in the eyes of many fans, coaches, and analysts.
Disclaimer
This biography is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data. Information may change over time, and any updates or corrections are welcome.
