Art Rooney II remembers Steelers reaction to the September 11 attacks
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 10:40 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
Steelers President Art Rooney II reflected on the organization's response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Following the events, the team visited a candlelight vigil in Somerset County for the victims of the Flight 93 crash. The NFL ultimately postponed Week 2 games, and Coach Cowher permitted players to return to their families during the period of uncertainty. When play resumed, the Steelers hosted the Bengals at Heinz Field on October 7. The stadium observed a message from President George W. Bush before the Steelers won the game 16-7. Rooney II noted that the period fostered a sense of national unity and provided a space for fans to process the national tragedy through sport.
- •Art Rooney II attended a memorial vigil for Flight 93 victims in Somerset County.
- •The NFL postponed all games scheduled for the weekend following September 11, 2001.
- •Steelers players were encouraged by Coach Cowher to visit their families after the attacks.
- •The Steelers won 16-7 against the Bengals on October 7, 2001.
- •A message from President George W. Bush was broadcast to the crowd at Heinz Field.
- 10:40 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers owner Art Rooney II reflects on how sports united families after 9/11
"Many of the players couldn’t fathom taking the field for a game just five days removed.
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