Pittsburgh Steelers fans of every generation morn the loss of long-time great owner, Dan Rooney.
Must Read: Steelers React to Passing of Dan Rooney
When news broke that Dan Rooney, one of the most exceptional members of the NFL for over 40 years, passed away, members of the Steelers organization joined together to show their respect. It was kind gestures from players, past and present, showing the world what a kind person Rooney was.
The six-time Super Bowl Champion did it all. When he wasn’t introducing himself to players and giving his input at practice, he was studying the team and everything around it. There wasn’t an aspect of this franchise Mr. Rooney didn’t know, and it showed in the reaction of his players.
With his passing, Pittsburgh reflects on the incredible journey they had. Few owners can say they had the success Mr. Rooney did. The Rooney Rule, because of all his successes in the NFL, will forever hold a place amongst the best in the game.
There was never a name on the roster he didn’t know. Whether you were the star or a practice squad guy, Mr. Rooney was there to shake your hand and guide you to be the best player you could.
He knew my name, a unknown signee, before I even said a word. I'll never forget that. Rest well! https://t.co/6p69WMnQRT
— Peak Work Archie (@JoshHarris25) April 13, 2017
Instead of focusing on his success, Rooney put the team and his players first. If one guy became a star, he considered a success. There aren’t many owners in football history that could say they’d rather their guys succeed them themselves. It wasn’t the team either. Yes, he always wanted the Steelers to win. But before that could happen he needed the players within the team to become the best they could be.
There weren’t players who got in trouble without dealing with Rooney. Whether it was off or on the field, the Steelers’ owner always made you take responsibility for your actions and correct the mistake. Although some criticized his discipline towards some players, he always had a firm grip on this franchise’s behavior.
He was the epitome of the word GOAT. Since 1975, Dan Rooney has made Pittsburgh into one of the greatest franchises in sports, let alone the NFL. Coaches and owners from this day on will forever look up to Rooney and his ways. If they’re lucky, they could end up with half the success he did.
Without Rooney, the Steelers would never be where they are. He turned the Steelers into a franchise people respect, fear, and cherish and for that, the city and the fans will forever be grateful.
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There will never be another Dan Rooney. The NFL lost one of the greatest, but his mark on this league will never fade.
From the players, coaches, fans, community members, and everyone who’s ever had the privilege to meet him, thank you, Dan Rooney. There will never be another man as incredible as you were.