“RIP Legend”: After Long Battle With Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease, NFL Fans Mourn the Passing of Pittsburgh Steelers Legend

The NFL community lost another prized member. After putting up an inspiring and heartwarming fight against Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, the NFL legend Dick Haley finally succumbed to his ailments. Haley had been a long-time Steeler, playing six years in a Pittsburg Steelers uniform, and then assembling one of the greatest teams ever. Haley will forever be remembered by the Steelers fanbase for being the architect of the most legendary draft class ever.

Former Steelers offensive coordinator and Dick Haley’s son took to Twitter to share the sad news, “Very sorry to say, the world, the NFL, and my entire family lost one of the best people I’ve ever known and my idol. A man that gave me the best chance to succeed in this world. My father Dick Haley after a long fight with dementia and Parkinson’s. I love you, DAD!”

Steelers fans have been showing their unshakeable support for the Haley family, and even though most of the young fans might not be aware of Dick Haley’s enormous body of work, they can certainly pay homage and respect to the greats.

Remembering the man

As soon as the news broke out, Steelers fans gathered on social media to pay homage to the legend. Steelers president Art Rooney II also went on to release a statement remembering the great Haley.

“We lost an amazing football mind and a better man with the passing of Dick Haley. Dick played an instrumental role in our unprecedented success in the 1970s during the second part of his career. He developed a unique eye for talent, and he ultimately helped identify and draft many of the players that allowed us to win four Super Bowls during that decade,” the post read.

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Several Steeler fans flocked to pay homage to the man. One user even went back to Haley’s days with the New York Jets

While another just uttered the words, “Rip legend”

Several fans wished prayers to the family.

With all the messages pouring in, hopefully, the family will find the strength to deal with the utter loss they have suffered. Additionally, the Steelers fanbase has once again proven that legends are never forgotten.

The legendary draft

Right after his playing career, Dick Haley took over as the Steelers’ Director of Player Personnel. A role he excelled in from 1971 to 1990. During this period, the Steelers went on to draft five NFL Hall-of-Famers, including the likes of Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Jack Lambert, Mike Webster, and Donnie Shell.

This draft class went on to dominate the 70s era of football, establishing a dynasty by winning four super bowls.

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Dick Haley orchestrated the single greatest draft class in existence, and his actions have immortalized the man in every football fan’s memories.