The Wilf family released a statement Thursday regarding the passing of Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney on behalf of the Minnesota Vikings organization.
Owners across the NFL hold a united front. Thursday was no exception to that.
After some sad news, the Minnesota Vikings offered some kind words about the career of Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney. Rooney passed away on Thursday at 84-years-old.
The Wilf family said the following about Rooney’s legacy.
Statement from the Wilf family on the passing of @steelers Owner Dan Rooney. https://t.co/QLDzuJusO8 pic.twitter.com/OJbQTjX3CR
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 13, 2017
Rooney truly was a leader in promoting diversity across the league. In 2003 he helped establish the Rooney Rule.
Because of this rule, all NFL teams were required to interview minorities for senior operation and coaching jobs. Due to his efforts, a level playing field was created for qualified minorities who may not have received consideration otherwise.
In addition to the Rooney Rule, he hired former Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin as the Steelers head coach in 2007. This proved to be an excellent move.
Furthermore, Tomlin went on to become the second African-American coach to win a Super Bowl in NFL history.
Under his ownership, the Steelers won six Super Bowls. Those six championships spaced from 1975 to 2009. Because of his success, Rooney was one of the greatest owners of all time.
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Rooney officially entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. He will forever hold his place in history as one of the greats who helped move the game of football forward.