PITTSBURGH— During a recent rally in western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Steelers icon Rocky Bleier took a unique approach by presenting President Donald Trump with a Steelers jersey marked with the number 47.
However, this gesture did not sit well with everyone.
Several Steelers fans expressed their dissatisfaction by emailing the team about the jersey presentation, as it was an independent action and not directly sanctioned by the organization. In response, the team clarified to those reaching out that the opinions and actions of both current and past players do not officially represent the views of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The rally, aimed at announcing a significant policy decision to increase tariffs on imported steel by 50%, also featured appearances by Steelers players Mason Rudolph, a quarterback, and Myles Killebrew, a safety.
Mason Rudolph acknowledged the feedback from fans but maintained a positive perspective.
“That’s the nature of social media,” Rudolph remarked after completing a voluntary workout session with the team. “It’s emblematic of why America is so extraordinary. Everyone has the freedom to hold and express their opinions. Freedom of speech prevails, and it’s to be expected.”
Trump has had prior engagements with individuals associated with the Steelers. Notably, former players Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell were seen alongside Trump during his campaign visits in western Pennsylvania preceding the 2024 election.
Additionally, Dan Rooney, the late former owner of the Steelers and a Hall of Famer, played a diplomatic role by serving as the U.S. ambassador to Ireland from 2009 to 2012, during the first term of President Barack Obama.