Statement from Steelers President Art Rooney, II concerning Dr. Rydze

I first became aware of the investigation involving Dr. Richard Rydze yesterday afternoon. I immediately called Dr. Rydze, who has been a member of our medical staff for many years. He acknowledged that he had a visit at his office a couple months ago from FDA officials.

Dr. Rydze said the agents made inquiries about his practice, and his purchases from a pharmacy in Florida. Dr. Rydze was told that he is not a target of the investigation.

I advised the League office yesterday of our knowledge of the situation. I have also reviewed the matter with our Head Trainer, John Norwig, as well as the head of our medical staff, Dr. Tony Yates.

There is no evidence that Dr. Rydze prescribed or provided any hormone treatments to any of our players. Dr. Rydze has assured me that this has never happened and will never happen.

We will continue to monitor this situation to make sure that we can continue to feel confident in our medical staff in this area.