In a forceful announcement, Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney II announced the return of legendary player James Henry Harrison Jr. as a co-owner and pledged to make linebacker T. J. Watt the…
In a stunning and emotional announcement that sent shockwaves through the NFL community, Pittsburgh Steelers owner and president Art Rooney II confirmed Friday afternoon that legendary linebacker James Harrison Jr. is returning to the franchise—not in pads, but in the boardroom.
Rooney announced Harrison’s return as a minority co-owner of the storied franchise during a forceful press conference at Acrisure Stadium. The move not only marks a historic homecoming for one of the Steelers’ most feared defensive players, but also underscores the organization’s deepening commitment to its legacy, culture, and defensive dominance.
“This is a proud day for the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Rooney said, flanked by Harrison and Head Coach Mike Tomlin. “James Harrison represents everything this franchise stands for—grit, toughness, excellence, and loyalty. His contributions on the field are legendary, but today we’re celebrating the next chapter. James is back, not just as a Steeler, but as an owner. He’s earned this.”
A Steelers Icon Returns
Harrison, now 47, is widely regarded as one of the most formidable linebackers in NFL history. Undrafted in 2002, he carved out a Hall-of-Fame-caliber career over 15 seasons—most of them in Pittsburgh. His resume includes two Super Bowl titles, five Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro honors, and the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. His iconic 100-yard interception return in Super Bowl XLIII remains one of the most memorable plays in NFL history.
Taking the podium, a visibly moved Harrison expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed his commitment to the black and gold.
“I bled for this team. I fought for this team. And I never stopped being a Steeler, even after I hung up the cleats,” Harrison said. “Being asked to come back—not to play, but to help lead and build—means everything to me. This isn’t just a team. It’s family.”
T.J. Watt “Will Be a Steeler for Life”
In a particularly passionate segment of the press conference, Rooney pivoted to another key pillar of the Steelers’ identity—All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt. Declaring his intention to keep Watt in Pittsburgh “for the rest of his career,” Rooney emphasized the organization’s long-term vision built around defensive leadership and continuity.
“T.J. Watt is the heart of this team right now,” Rooney stated. “There will be no question—T.J. Watt will be a Steeler for life. Whatever it takes, we’re going to make it happen. This city, this defense, and this ownership group are behind him one hundred percent.”
Watt, who recently became the franchise’s all-time sack leader, is currently under contract through the 2025 season. However, Rooney confirmed that preliminary talks on an extension have already begun, with both sides reportedly enthusiastic about finalizing a deal that would keep the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year in Pittsburgh well into the 2030s.
Sources close to the team indicated that the proposed deal could exceed five years and make Watt the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history.
A New Era of Leadership
With Harrison now stepping into an ownership role, and franchise players like Watt being prioritized as foundational cornerstones, the Steelers appear poised to usher in a new era rooted in familiar values. The franchise, often cited as the gold standard of consistency in the NFL, is making clear that its future will remain grounded in the same principles that brought six Super Bowl championships to Pittsburgh.
Coach Mike Tomlin, entering his 19th season at the helm, praised the announcement as a defining moment for the team.
“When you bring in someone like James Harrison to help guide the future, you’re not just getting a name—you’re getting a mentality,” Tomlin said. “That kind of leadership can’t be bought. It’s earned. And this team will benefit tremendously from it.”
Fans across Steelers Nation erupted on social media following the news, celebrating the return of a legend and the reaffirmation of the franchise’s commitment to its defensive roots. With OTAs underway and training camp on the horizon, the organization appears united, energized, and laser-focused on contending for another Lombardi Trophy.
As for Harrison’s message to the fans?
“Get ready,” he said, flashing a familiar, steely grin. “Because the Steelers are coming. And we’re coming hard.”
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