Kordell Stewart revisits career rumor in new documentary

Kordell Stewart addresses a rumor that followed him during his Pittsburgh Steelers career in “Kordell Stewart: Slash & Burn,” a documentary from HBO and NFL Films. Stewart says the story began in 1998, when a friend told him that people were claiming he had been arrested at Schenley Park for a lewd act involving a transgender woman. Stewart was never arrested and has consistently denied the allegation.

The rumor spread quickly, reaching former teammates and others in several cities. Stewart said the scrutiny came as he was trying to establish himself as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback. The documentary includes a visit to Schenley Park, where the alleged incident was said to have happened.

Known as “Slash” for his ability to play several positions, Stewart said he believes his versatile style anticipated the dual-threat quarterbacks now valued in the NFL. Pittsburgh selected him in round two after his standout career at Colorado. He initially played multiple roles before pursuing the quarterback position full time.

Stewart led Pittsburgh to an 11-5 record as a starter in 1997, and the team reached the AFC Championship Game. Coaching changes and the rumor added challenges in the following period, he said. He also pointed to his record with coach Bill Cowher as a source of pride, despite not winning a Super Bowl.

Now 54, Stewart remains involved in football as a volunteer offensive coordinator at South Forsyth High School in Cumming, Georgia. He described telling his story for the documentary as a cathartic experience and said he wants his play on the field to remain central to how people remember him.