Lynn Swann is the third straight former player to be named AD at USC. (USATSI)

Southern California announced Wednesday that Lynn Swann, the former wide receiver for the Trojans and four-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers, will take over as the school's next athletic director. 

Swann will take over for Pat Haden, who announced his retirement in February effective June 30.

"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," Swann said in an official statement. "As athletic director, my goals for the student-athletes will be to graduate, to win and to experience."

Swann is the third straight former player hired to lead the athletic department, joining Haden (a former quarterback) and Mike Garrett (a Heisman Trophy-winning halfback).