Legendary Steelers Running Back, Assistant Coach Dead At 86

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Legendary Steelers Running Back, Assistant Coach Dead At 86

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Nov 11, 2026 12:19 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Wednesday that longtime coach and Pro Bowl running back Dick Hoak has passed away. He was 86.

Hoak played for the Steelers from 1961-1970, rushing for over 3,965 yards. Although he never won a Super Bowl as a player, he won five Super Bowl titles as the running backs coach for the Steelers. He held that position from 1972-2006, coaching two legends in Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis

Unfortunately, the Steelers had to say goodbye to Hoak this week.

“Dick represented everything the Steelers stand for with his toughness, loyalty, dedication and an unwavering commitment to the team. First as a player, then as a coach, Dick’s contributions to this organization spanned generations. He was respected and admired by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His legacy includes coaching some of the all-time great Steelers, including Franco Harris, Rocky Bleier, Jerome Bettis, and Willie Parker,” said Steelers president Art Rooney II. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hoak family during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Steelers family.”

Nov 26, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers former player and coach Dick Hoak (left) and linebacker Andy Russell at Heinz Field for a ceremony to honor the Hall of Honor inductees during halftime against the Green Bay Packers. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY SportsPhilip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports.

It’s been a tough month for Steelers fans.

Just four days ago, Steelers legend Jack Ham was hospitalized after suffering a medical emergency. He was supposed to handle the radio broadcast for Penn State’s game against Washington.

Thankfully, Ham is now in stable condition, per Penn State coach Matt Campbell.

“He’s in stable condition. He’s still out in Washington. We got to see him after the game, which was awesome, and he was doing really well. I think that is great progress. We hopefully get him back here sooner than later,” Campbell said, via On3. “I want to just say from my end a sincere thank you to so many people that have reached out. Obviously, what Jack and his family mean to Penn State football, and on behalf of our program, and obviously the athletic department, the love, the care that we have gotten on behalf of Jack, we really appreciate it greatly.”

Steelers fans could certainly use some positive news after learning about Hoak’s passing.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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