HeraldStandard Troy Polamalu called Dan Rooney last night to inform him he was retiring from football. The Steelers had asked Polamalu to retire in February, but he resisted until the realization came upon him in church this week, the Holy Week of the Greek Orthodox Church. “It’s all about family,” said Polamalu in a phone interview. “I live here in Pittsburgh now, and since the end of the season I’ve had a chance to enjoy my family on a level I never had before. It was awesome.” Polamalu retires after 12 seasons, in which the eight-time Pro Bowler and four-time first-team All-Pro played in 158 regular-season games, 15 playoff games and three Super Bowls. In those games, the Steelers’ strong safety made 710 tackles, intercepted 35 passes, forced 13 fumbles, recovered seven fumbles, scored four touchdowns and won two championships. In his prime, No. 43 was one of the greatest to ever play the game.

And that’s the end of an era. Troy has lost a step the last few years and his wreckless play ultimately cost him the rest of this past season. His leadership will definitely be missed as the defense continues to get younger. 

The big question on everyone’s mind… Who is the hair of the burgh now?  Cutch just hacked off his locks and now with Polamalu no longer suiting up its an open race for the title of hair of the burgh. 

Wouldn’t surprise me one bit to see Ben show up with a Yinzer skullet.