Tim Rooney, a respected NFL scout and integral figure in the league’s history, has passed away at 84 after a brief battle with cancer. The nephew of Steelers founder Art Rooney Sr., Tim made his mark as the Giants’ director of pro personnel from 1985 to 1999, playing a crucial role in their Super Bowl victories in 1986 and 1990. How did becoming a scout for the Steelers change Rooney’s football journey?
A Lifetime of Football Excellence
Tim Rooney, who helped build multiple Super Bowl championship teams with both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants, has died at age 84 following a short battle with cancer. Born in Pittsburgh as the nephew of Steelers founder Art Rooney Sr., he began his football journey coaching at the high school level in Pittsburgh before advancing to collegiate coaching staffs at Villanova and Rhode Island University.
His NFL career began with the Steelers in 1972, where he became an instrumental part of the team’s dynasty that captured three Super Bowl championships during the 1970s. “I watched the scrimmage, and he was so strong from the waist up. Long, strong arms. I watched him move around and his instincts. I don’t think it took me to find Jack Lambert. I was just the first to see him,” Rooney once said about discovering the legendary linebacker who would become a cornerstone of the Steel Curtain defense.
Giants President John Mara on passing of Tim Rooney
📰: https://t.co/ACZsxzLIU1 pic.twitter.com/urCUpyA5gm
— New York Giants (@Giants) July 8, 2025
Building Champions with the Giants
After his successful tenure with the Steelers, Rooney spent time with the Detroit Lions before joining the New York Giants in 1985 as director of pro personnel. He worked closely with head coach Bill Parcells and general manager George Young to construct the championship teams that won Super Bowls in 1986 and 1990.
The Mara family, owners of the Giants, had longstanding ties with the Rooney family, which created a natural fit for Tim in the organization. “Any player I suggest has to fit the standards set here by George Young and Bill Parcells for that particular position,” Rooney once explained about his methodical approach to player evaluation during his 14-year tenure with the Giants.
Tim Rooney, longtime NFL scout who won two Super Bowls with Giants, dead at 84 https://t.co/ysUWEKdFq2 pic.twitter.com/FNOiI6BJlp
— New York Post (@nypost) July 9, 2025
Legacy and Remembrance
Rooney retired from football in 1999, having earned five Super Bowl rings across his remarkable career with the Steelers and Giants. After retirement, he fully embraced life outside of football, enjoying travel and sailing with his family, including his wife Mary Ann, two children, and six grandchildren.
Giants president John Mara paid tribute to Rooney, describing him as an invaluable member of the organization and a great person whose contributions were essential to the team’s success. Hall of Fame coach Bill Parcells, who worked closely with Rooney during the Giants’ championship years, praised his honesty and professionalism, noting their strong working relationship as a key factor in building championship-caliber teams.
Former Giants general manager Ernie Accorsi highlighted Rooney’s exceptional talent evaluation skills and integrity. “Now, I was a Rooney — nothing like nepotism! But I had coaching experience. I wasn’t married — so I could travel easily,” Rooney once quipped about his early career, demonstrating the self-deprecating humor that endeared him to colleagues throughout his decades in professional football.