🏈 BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Hits Acrisure Stadium as Former Steelers WR Lynn Swann Returns to His Former Team as Senior Coaching Advisor
July 31, 2025 — Pittsburgh, PA
In a move that has thrilled fans across Steelers Nation and stunned the NFL community, Hall of Fame wide receiver Lynn Swann has officially returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers — this time, as a Senior Coaching Advisor to the team’s offensive staff.
The Steelers announced the news in a surprise press release early Wednesday, confirming that Swann will join head coach Mike Tomlin’s staff for the upcoming 2025 season. Swann, 73, will work closely with Pittsburgh’s young wide receivers and offensive coordinators, bringing decades of experience, championship pedigree, and unmatched perspective to the sidelines.
“This is home,” Swann said during a short press conference at Acrisure Stadium. “The black and gold runs through my blood, and I’m honored to be back, not as a player this time, but as a mentor. I’m here to help this new generation of Steelers become champions — the Steeler Way.”
A Legendary Return
Lynn Swann is one of the most iconic players in Steelers history. Drafted in the first round in 1974, Swann spent his entire 9-year career in Pittsburgh, winning four Super Bowl titles and earning Super Bowl X MVP honors. Known for his graceful leaping catches, precision route-running, and clutch performances, Swann was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.
Though he stayed close to the game in media and administrative roles — including a tenure as USC’s athletic director — Swann had never officially returned to the Steelers organization in a coaching capacity. That changes now.
“It’s something we’ve talked about quietly for a long time,” said Steelers President Art Rooney II. “And the timing just felt right. Lynn Swann is not only a legend — he’s a leader, a teacher, and an example of what it means to be a Steeler.”
A Mentor for the Next Generation
Swann’s primary role will be mentoring Pittsburgh’s rising group of young receivers, including George Pickens, Calvin Austin III, and rookie standout Treyvon Hart. He’ll also be working with wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith on developing route precision, ball control, and football IQ.
“This group has talent,” Swann said. “They’ve got fire. My job is to help them refine it — help them understand what it means to make the big play when it counts.”
Coach Mike Tomlin expressed full confidence in Swann’s ability to connect with today’s players.
“Lynn’s knowledge of the game is timeless,” Tomlin said. “But what’s even more important is his integrity, his humility, and his ability to lead. Our guys are going to benefit greatly from having him around.”
Steelers Nation Reacts
The announcement was met with overwhelming excitement from fans, alumni, and current players.
“Lynn Swann back in the building?? Man, that’s legendary,” tweeted former Steelers safety Ryan Clark.
“I grew up watching his highlights. Now I get to learn from the man himself,” said George Pickens after practice. “This is crazy — in the best way.”
Steelers fans filled social media with messages like “Bring back the Dynasty!” and “From Super Bowl rings to sideline wisdom — Swann is Steelers royalty!”
Looking Ahead
The Steelers are entering a pivotal season with second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett and an offense full of potential but still seeking consistency. Swann’s presence adds not only technical expertise but a sense of tradition and championship culture.
“This isn’t about reliving the past,” Swann said. “It’s about using what we learned to build something even greater. The standard hasn’t changed. It’s still Super Bowl or nothing.”
With Lynn Swann back in black and gold, the Pittsburgh Steelers are not just honoring their past —