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For nearly six decades, Michael Zagaris has had unparalleled access to photographing the NFL. In honor of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents a series of billboard prints along Tito Way, accompanied by an exhibition at 707 Penn Avenue. The images on view are drawn from Zagaris’ rarely seen NFL archive, offering an intimate glimpse into some of football’s most iconic moments. 

After earning a law degree from George Washington University and Santa Clara Law School, Zagaris worked as speechwriter for Senator Bobby Kennedy. After witnessing Kennedy’s assassination, Zagaris’ life took a decisive turn. He settled in San Francisco and began photographing sports and rock and roll at the encouragement of his friend Eric Clapton. In 1973, he became the official team photographer of the 49ers, and in 1981, team photographer for the Oakland Athletics. Since then, in addition to documenting each regular season, he has also photographed 42 Super Bowls, 12 World Series, and 14 MLB All-Star Games, earning three Super Bowl rings and one World Series ring. Beyond sports, Zagaris has documented the vibrant music scene of the Bay Area, capturing legends such as Led Zeppelin, The Who, Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead. His work has appeared in major publications including Sports Illustrated, Rolling Stone, and Time Magazine. 

Michael Zagaris: Tito Way Billboards are presented in conjunction with the artist’s solo exhibition 50 Years of NFL Photography, curated by Anastasia James and presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.  

Image: 

Michael Zagaris (b. 1945, Chicago; lives and works, San Francisco) 
Franco Harris (#32) of the Pittsburgh Steelers and George Atkinson (#43) of the Oakland Raiders Immediately Following a Tense Game, September 12, 1976 
Photograph courtesy Michael Zagaris