In 2017, the Pittsburgh Steelers created the Hall of Honor to “recognize former players, coaches, and front office personnel who played an integral role in the success of the franchise, from the beginning in 1933 until now. To be considered, a player must be retired at least three years and played a minimum of three seasons for the Steelers. Former coaches and contributors had to make significant contributions to the team and community.” (Steelers)
The 4 people that make up the 2019 Hall of Honor class are Larry Brown, Elbie Nickle, Hines Ward and former NC State linebacker Bill Cowher.
Cowher was the Steelers head coach from 1992-2006, leading the team to victory in Super Bowl XL. In his 15 seasons he guided the team to eight division titles and his teams played in six AFC Championship games and two Super Bowls, losing in Super Bowl XXX to the Dallas Cowboys.
“To be inducted into the Hall of Honor is a true honor,” said Cowher. “The Steelers organization and the tradition is recognized as one of the best in the NFL. Football is the ultimate team sport. My 15 years was the collaborative work of players, coaches and support staff. Having grown up in Crafton, just four miles from Heinz Field, this is very special to me. I am truly humbled.
“I was blessed to play a small role in the Steelers tradition. To be recognized with those in the Hall of Honor, it’s humbling. It all starts at the top with the Rooney Family. To be recognized for making the contributions I did, along with the others who are part of the Hall of Honor, it really is humbling. Particularly when you grow up in Pittsburgh and know what the Steelers mean to the city. To me, as a little boy growing up watching the Steelers, this means a lot to me. It’s special.
“When you talk about tradition, and organizations, the Steelers are one of the best in the NFL. The longevity of the ownership. As a kid growing up watching the likes of Franco Harris, Jack Lambert, Joe Greene and Chuck Noll. It was a steel town and Noll identified with that. As a kid you were proud to say you were from Pittsburgh. You can take people out of Pittsburgh, but you will never take the Pittsburgh out of people.” (Steelers)
Cowher led NC State in tackles in 1977 and 1978. He also served as a captain in 1978. Cowher holds the record for the most tackles in a single season 195 (1978), and his 176 in 1977 rank 3rd. Twice in his career he had 24 tackles in a single game, which is tied for the 2nd most in school history. Cowher’s 371 career tackles ranks 7th in NC State history.