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The Pittsburgh Steelers sent an email to fans who were upset by the appearances of some of their players at a rally for President Donald Trump on Friday.
During the rally, quarterback Mason Rudolph, safety Miles Killebrew and former Steelers running back Rocky Bleier presented Trump with a number 47 Steelers jersey. Cornerback Mel Blount wore number 47 during his playing days with Pittsburgh and is now a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
“I happen to think a really good quarterback is a man named Mason Rudolph,” Donald Trump said while introducing the Steelers players at the rally. “And I think he’s going to get a big shot. He’s tall, he’s handsome, got a great arm and I have a feeling he’s going to be the guy.”
During the jersey presentation, Rocky Bleier called Donald Trump a “Hall of Fame president” and announced to the crowd, “on behalf of U.S. Steel and to the people of Pittsburgh, more importantly though to all the Steeler fans that are here this evening, I have the honor of making you an honorary Pittsburgh Steeler.”
According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers received complaints via letters, emails and social media posts from fans and season-ticket holders about the players being at the rally in West Mifflin.
In response, the Pittsburgh Steelers sent an email out on Monday which read: “We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with us. As valued fans, your voice is an essential part of what makes our Steelers community and fan base so strong.
“We understand that a recent rally in Pittsburgh has generated a range of reactions from our fan base. Our alumni and current players make their own individual decisions that reflect their views, and they do not necessarily represent the view of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your passion and your continued support of the team.”