Joey Porter, Willie Parker, and Aaron and Marvel Smith -- standout players from the past decade for the Steelers -- were honored Friday night in a ceremony before the team's annual night practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium where they "retired" as Steelers. "This is home. Even when I left -- it was OK to go and play for Miami and Arizona ... but there's nothing like home," Porter said. "Pittsburgh -- once you come through here -- it's a special piece in your heart here, in Pittsburgh. That void wouldn't have been filled if I didn't come back and retire as a Steeler." An undrafted free agent in '04, Parker famously turned heads with his impressive speed in training camp and went on to become the team's third all-time leading rusher in his six-year career. "It's finishing off where I started at," Parker said. "The six years of my life were the best years I ever had. Meeting some of the greatest people and greatest athletes ... being a part of the Pittsburgh Steelers is something no one can ever take away from me." Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Porter and Aaron Smith were two of my favorites. Glad to see them come back home with Marvel and Willie.
Nice move to do this on a great night for fans. Seems like this 'Friday Night Lights' open practice might be the next big thing around the league. Something like this adds to a great fan experience overall.
I didn't get to attend, but I heard it was a real fun event and good time! Players were very open to some fan interaction as well...
If it was up to GIF, you'd have 24/7 coverage and live free HQ streams of all games for free. NFL will eventually get it.