TSN 2001 NFL Executive of the Year: Dan Rooney, Steelers

Sporting News, The, March 25, 2002 by Paul Attner

Twenty-nine years ago, when he was a lad of 40, Dan Rooney won the NFL Executive of the Year award presented by THE SPORTING NEWS. In a tribute both to his impressive longevity and continued executive brilliance, the Steelers' president again is the winner of the award, now called the George Young NFL Executive of the Year Award in tribute to the late five-time recipient of this honor.

Rooney oversaw the patient reconstruction of the Steelers' roster, which produced the AFC's best record in 2001 after three straight seasons out of the playoffs. In balloting by NFL team owners, presidents and front office executives, Rooney received 11 votes and was followed by Rams president Jay Zygmunt (9). Rams general manager Charley Armey and Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert each received 7 votes.

"This is a great honor, but it really and truly is one that represents the entire team, coaching staff and front office," says Rooney, whose father, Art, won the award in 1974. "And to be the first to receive it as the George Young Award makes it even more special."

Young, who died in December, was the longtime Giants general manager before moving into league administration. "It is a wonderful tribute by THE SPORTING NEWS to name this award for George," says Young's widow, Lovie. "Winning the award always meant a great deal to him because it was determined by a vote of his peers. George cared so much about the game and protecting its integrity. This award will honor NFL executives who reflect these qualities."

Dan Rooney, already in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is one of the most respected and influential owners in the league. He has been a great peacemaker, particularly in negotiations with the players association. But limited cash flow during the early years of the free-agent system hindered his efforts to keep together the Steelers' roster, which was ravaged by departures. Now the Steelers play in new Heinz Field and are more able to be a player in the market.

"But we still want to sign our own," says Rooney, one of the NFL's most patient owners. It was his decision to stay with coach Bill Cowher when the Steelers hit their playoffs void, and that judgment was rewarded with the team's resurgence in 2001.

"Teams change coaches too often; they aren't patient with players either," says Rooney. "We feel you've got to give everyone a chance to show what they can do."

Dan Rooney was 1 when Art Rooney bought the Steelers. Dan went to his first training camp at 5, was a water boy at 14 and was negotiating player contracts at 18. Retirement plans? "None," he says. "As long as I feel I can contribute, I will be involved."