Antonio Brown pays heartfelt tribute to late Dan Rooney
Friday 14 April 2017 11:10, UK
Pittsburgh wide receiver Antonio Brown has paid tribute to the late Steelers' chairman Dan Rooney.
Rooney, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 84, is famous for the introduction of the Rooney Rule in 2003, which requires teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation positions.
Under his leadership, the Steelers also won six Super Bowls, in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005 and 2008.
Brown, who has played for the Steelers since they drafted him in 2010, took to Instagram to pay his tribute to Rooney.
He said: "Dear Mr. Rooney, When we first met in 2010 you embraced me with open arms. You made me feel welcome.
"You looked at me as more than just another jersey number. One of the most genuine, and humble human beings I've had the pleasure of knowing.
"You motivated me not only to excel on the field but also in life. This season, the No 84 on my uniform will represent the 84 years you spent on this earth making an impact on the lives of others. I'll miss you my friend. Thank you for everything."
Brown played in the 2011 Super Bowl, which Pittsburgh lost to Green Bay, but has become one of the league's all-time leading receivers, with five Pro Bowl selections.
In 2014, Brown was the co-AFC offensive player of the year, a season in which he led the league for receiving yards (1,698 yards).
