ESPN The Magazine seventh annual Ultimate Standings were released today, which measures how much MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL franchises give back to the fans in exchange for all the time, money and emotion the fans invest in them. The Steelers ranked number 3 overall and are number one as far as NFL teams go. The Penguins came in at number 7 overall and fourth in the NHL. We will not talk about the Pirates. That is the first rule of Pirate fans.
Steeler safety Troy Polamalu was voted smartest player by his AFC North peers in a report on ESPN. He and linebacker James Harrison tied for second in the Best All-Around Player category.
Another story on the group of Steelers working out at Tom Shaw\’s Performance at Disney\’s Wide World of Sports. This story features the work of linebacker James Farrior and cornerback Ike Taylor.
Wide receiver Limas Sweed visited kids at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh who are being treated for Sickle Cell Anemia.
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton gave the city of Pittsburgh major props, saying Pittsburgh is not only a great place to showcase businesses but also the success of American sports. The comments were made at the swearing in of Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney as the new U.S. Ambassador to Ireland.
It still may be a while until first round draft pick, Ziggy Hood is signed as only one second round pick and two first round picks from the 2009 NFL draft have been signed. The Steelers usually wait until a few draft picks above and below sign so they can get a good market value. Signings should start ramping up in the middle of the month as many teams open up training camps at the end of July.