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Art Rooney II Reaches Out to Hines Ward: “Come Back Home for a Special Role!”

Steelers Nation is buzzing with excitement after President Art Rooney II reportedly made a bold move: inviting franchise legend Hines Ward back to Pittsburgh as an assistant offensive coordinator. With dreams of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in 2025, the Black & Gold are looking to bring more championship DNA back to the Steel City.

Hines Ward a semifinalist for the Pro Football HOF in 2022 - Behind the  Steel Curtain

On Tuesday morning, sources close to the team revealed that Art Rooney II personally reached out to Hines Ward with a heartfelt message: “Hines, it’s time to come back home. We want you back in Pittsburgh—for a special role.”

Rooney’s invitation is not just a standard coaching offer; it’s a call for Ward to join the staff as an assistant offensive coordinator—a newly tailored position designed to maximize his legendary leadership, energy, and deep understanding of Steelers culture. The move signals the franchise’s intent to infuse fresh inspiration into the offense as they chase another Super Bowl run.

Hines Ward Puts the Smack Down on Goodell's NFL | Pittsburgh Magazine

Why go out of his way for Hines Ward, and why now? Pittsburgh’s offense has been searching for its identity and toughness, especially in crunch time. By making this personal, heartfelt invitation, Art Rooney II is sending a clear message: the Steelers want more than just Xs and Os—they want heart, history, and a true Pittsburgh mentality back in the building.

What's the Pro Football Hall Missing About Hines Ward? We Asked Him - Talk  of Fame

Ward’s appointment isn’t just about coaching wide receivers; it’s about rekindling the fire in the entire offensive unit. Having a Steelers legend—someone who bled black and gold, who lifted Lombardi Trophies, and who inspired a city—back on the sidelines could be a game-changer. The “special role” suggests trust and creative freedom, something few assistants receive in today’s NFL.

Why Hines Ward Is More Than a Football Player

While there’s no official quote from either Rooney or Ward yet, fan buzz says it all:

“If Rooney’s calling Hines to come back, you know it’s about to get real in Pittsburgh. That’s family!” 
“A ‘special role’ for a special player—this is how you build Super Bowl teams!” 

ASU Football: ASU set to hire Steelers legend Hines Ward as receiver coach  - House of Sparky

Hines Ward, with 14 legendary seasons in Pittsburgh, two Super Bowls, and a Super Bowl MVP, is synonymous with Steelers grit and loyalty. Since his retirement, he’s remained close to the game, coaching at both the NFL and college level, always representing that tough Steelers spirit.
Pats brace for rough stuff from Hines Ward

Could this heartfelt reunion and “special role” be the spark that ignites a Steelers Super Bowl run in 2025? Time will tell, but the whole city is watching, and hope is sky-high.
What do you think—can Hines Ward’s return in a unique coaching role turn the tide for Pittsburgh? Drop your take below!

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Ravens Update Quarterback Depth Amid Controversies - Re-signed Pro Bowl Star to QB2
Baltimore, MD – October 7, 2025 Following Cooper Rush's disappointing performance in the humiliating 10-44 loss to the Houston Texans on Saturday (October 6), the Baltimore Ravens are facing intense debates about their quarterback room depth. With Lamar Jackson still nursing a hamstring injury and potentially missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams (scheduled for Week 6), the big question arises: Should Tyler Huntley – the former Ravens Pro Bowl star – get the starting nod over Rush? Huntley, 27 years old, was re-signed by the Ravens to the practice squad at the end of August 2025 and quickly elevated to QB2 for Week 5. He served as the Ravens' backup QB from 2020-2024, leading the team to the playoffs in 2022 and earning a Pro Bowl replacement spot thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Jackson. With experience in 9 starts (3-6 record), Huntley brings familiarity to the Ravens' offensive system, particularly his mobility and game-reading skills – something Rush seemed to lack in the Texans loss, where he completed only 18/34 passes with 1 TD and 2 INTs, resulting in the offense scoring just 10 points. The controversy exploded on social media, with the hashtag #RavensFlock divided. Many fans support Huntley: "Rush has proven he's not the solution. Huntley knows the system, knows how to win games – put him in!" (from account @RavensFanatic on X). Meanwhile, others defend Rush, arguing he needs time to adapt after transferring from the Dallas Cowboys: "Rush just started his first game for us. Don't rush to conclusions – he has playoff experience!" However, Rush's performance (only 189 passing yards, no big plays) has raised concerns about the depth chart, especially with Jackson possibly out for another 1-2 weeks. Head coach John Harbaugh hasn't commented directly, but in the post-Texans press conference, he hinted at a reevaluation: "We have multiple quality options at QB. Tyler is ready, and we'll choose the one best suited to win." ESPN insiders report that Huntley has been practicing fully and performing well, potentially being promoted to official QB2 if Jackson misses the Rams game – a crucial matchup for the Ravens (currently 1-4) to salvage their season. Signing Huntley – a Pro Bowl star – is seen as a smart move amid the controversies, boosting the Ravens' depth and flexibility. If Huntley gets "the nod" to start, it could be his chance to prove his value, just like his previous fill-ins for Jackson. Ravens fans are awaiting the decision – will "Snoop" (Huntley's nickname) return to save the team? Follow updates from baltimoreravens.com for more details. #RavensFlock #QBControversy