Lynn Swann hired as USC athletic director

NFL Hall of Famer Lynn Swann has been named the athletic director at USC.

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NFL Hall of Famer Lynn Swann has been named the athletic director at USC, the school announced Wednesday. 

After a national search, USC president C.L. Max Nikias made the decision to hire a former USC football player for the position for the third consecutive time.

“To his new role, Lynn Swann will bring the heart and soul of a Trojan,” Nikias said in a statement. “He shares our profound dedication to combining academic excellence with athletic excellence.”

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He replaces Pat Haden, who stepped down from the position in February.

Swann played receiver for the Trojans from 1971–1973, being named an All-American in 1973. He won four Super Bowls and was named to three Pro Bowl teams during a nine-year career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. 

“I am excited about coming back to USC -- its growth and success under President Nikias has been phenomenal and my family and I are looking forward to being a part of that," said Swann. "As athletic director, my goals for the student-athletes will be to graduate, to win and to experience.”