MIAMI — He grew his hair so long that it flowed out of his helmet and obscured the name on his jersey.

Yet everyone knew where to find Troy Polamalu on Sundays.

The Steelers great earned a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday along with another hard-hitting safety, the longtime Broncos defensive back Steve Atwater. Wide receiver Isaac Bruce, running back Edgerrin James and guard Steve Hutchinson also were selected.

Polamalu said he did not cut his hair for at least six years during the prime of his career, which lasted from 2003-14. But as much as for the hair, he earned the nickname Tasmanian devil for how he changed the way people thought about the safety position — bolting around the field, making plays from practically anywhere. No quarterback, runner or receiver was safe.

Chosen for induction in his first year of eligibility, Polamalu was a four-time All-Pro, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time Super Bowl champion in three trips. His pick-6 against Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco in the A.F.C. championship game after the 2008 season was part of a dominating performance in what might have been his best campaign. He had seven interceptions and the Steelers won the Super Bowl.