Former Steelers player, coach Dick Hoak dies at 86

PITTSBURGH — Dick Hoak, who spent decades with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a player and coach, has died at the age of 86.

Steelers President Art Rooney II announced his death on Wednesday, saying, “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.”

Hoak, from Jeannette, was a running back from 1961-1970, still remaining seventh on the franchise’s all-time rushing list with 3,965 yards.

“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,” Rooney said.

Hoak then served as a running backs coach for the Steelers from 1972-2007, both under Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher.

“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,” Rooney said. “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.”

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