Dan Rooney

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Rooney implemented a philosophy and management style that emphasized open, practical and efficient management. The Steelers were very successful during his tenure, winning 15 division championships, eight AFC Championships, and an NFL record six Super Bowl Championships. In 2000, he was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his contributions to the game. He was also credited with spearheading a requirement that NFL teams with head coach and general manager vacancies interview at least one minority candidate, which has become known as the 'Rooney Rule'. Outside of football, Rooney served as the United States Ambassador to Ireland, from July 2009 until his resignation in December 2012. He was also co-founder of the Ireland-related fundraising organization The Ireland Funds.

In Their Own Story

In the aftermath of the 2003 season, the Steelers' worst since 1988 with a 6-10 record, Arthur Rooney II and his father Dan met with head coach Bill Cowher to discuss the team's future. Cowher later recalled that Rooney never interjected his own ideas; instead, he wanted to know what Cowher's goals were, asking him "what kind of changes do you plan on making?" rather than demanding a change. That patience paid off after the 2004 NFL draft, which included quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. The team improved to a 15-1 record and made their first AFC championship appearance since 2001. Rooney oversaw Super Bowl victories in 2005 and 2008, plus an additional appearance in Super Bowl XLV in 2010. He also oversaw the head coaching change from Bill Cowher to Mike Tomlin in the 2007 offseason.

Reader's Guide

Rooney was born in Pittsburgh, the son of Kathleen (née McNulty) and Art Rooney. He attended North Catholic High School and Duquesne University, graduating with a degree in accounting in 1954. He worked as director of personnel for the Steelers in 1960, became general manager in 1969, and was appointed team president in 1975. He oversaw all six championship teams between Super Bowl IX and Super Bowl XLIII. He helped lead negotiations of the collective bargaining agreement of 1982 and was one of the main architects of the salary cap. In 2008, he and his son Art Rooney II announced they were seeking to buy out his brothers' shares in the team due to gambling policy conflicts.

Did You Know?

• Rooney personally selected the coaching hire of Chuck Noll in 1969.
• He was the only owner, along with Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson, to vote against the Cleveland Browns moving to Baltimore in 1995.
• Rooney made the final call to draft Ben Roethlisberger in the 2004 NFL draft.
• He retained head coach Chuck Noll after a 1–13 season in 1969 and gave him a raise.