A Steelers icon has passed away.
Former Steelers running back and running backs coach Dick Hoak has died at 86.
In a statement, team president Art Rooney II said. "Dick was part of the foundation of this organization, and played an instrumental role in shaping the Steelers as both a player and coach during his 45 years with the team."
Born in Jeanette, Hoak was taken by the Steelers 90th overall in the 1961 draft and was a running back with the team through 1970. He was named a Pro Bowler in 1968.
In 1972, Hoak was hired as the team’s running backs coach, a position he held through 2007, when he retired.
In addition to five Super Bowl Championship rings he received as a coach, Hoak was inducted as an inaugural member of the Steelers Hall of Honor in 2017.
As a player and a coach, Hoak spent 45 years with the organization.
Art Rooney II’s full statement:
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dick Hoak, a legendary member of the Pittsburgh Steelers family. Dick was part of the foundation of this organization and played an instrumental role in shaping the Steelers as both a player and coach during his 45 years with the team.
Dick represented everything the Steelers stand for with his toughness, loyalty, dedication and an unwavering commitment to the team. First as a player, then as a coach, Dick's contributions to this organization spanned generations.
He was respected and admired by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His legacy includes coaching some of the all-time great Steelers, including Franco Harris, Rocky Bleier, Jerome Bettis, and Willie Parker.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hoak family during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Steelers family.
