No Steelers/Pitt fans at Heinz Field in September

The Steelers and Pitt announced Thursday they will not have fans at Heinz Field this season -- at least in the month of September.

Steelers team president Art Rooney II has been in negotiations with state government officials for some time now regarding the issue, but for the time being, fans will not be permitted to attend games at Heinz Field.

"As we have prepared for the 2020 season, we have continuously followed the guidance of public health officials to ensure the safety of our fans, as well as our players, coaches and staff," Rooney said. "And we understand and appreciate the dedication of our fans who want to attend games this season. That is why it is disappointing to announce that we will not be able to host fans for our first two home games in September. Our plan for games without fans has been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and we appreciate and respect the guidance of our public health officials concerning the ongoing public health emergency.

"We will continue to work on plans to host fans at games when it is deemed safe to proceed. We will communicate with our ticketholders concerning updates on our plans."

Earlier, the Eagles also announced they would not have fans in games this season until further notice.

The Steelers open their regular season schedule Sept. 20 at home against the Broncos. They also play at home the following week, hosting the Texans Sept. 27.

Pitt is scheduled to host Austin-Peay in its homer opener Sept. 12 and also has home games in the month against Syracuse and Louisville that will not not include fans.

"Although we are disappointed for our loyal and passionate fans, the Panther Pitt student section and especially our student-athletes' families and friends, the University of Pittsburgh respects and understands the guidelines set forth by state and county health officials," Director of Athletics Heather Lyke said. "We will remain in communication with the appropriate agencies and continue to explore possible fan attendance—in each of our fall sports' home venues—for contests beyond September."