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Steelers Legend Franco Harris Passes Away At 72

Scott Logush / NFL / December 21, 2022

Steelers Legend Franco Harris Passes Away At 72

Some sad news has hit the NFL today, as Steelers legend Franco Harris, most known for the “Immaculate Reception,” passed away at 72.

“Franco Harris, the Hall of Fame running back whose heads-up thinking authored “The Immaculate Reception,” considered the most iconic play in NFL history, has died. He was 72. Harris’ son Dok told The Associated Press his father passed away overnight. No cause of death was given.“
From NFL.com

The first-round pick in the 1972 NFL Draft out of Penn State made an immediate impact in Pittsburgh, winning the 1972 offensive Rookie of the Year award. Harris was a key part of the Steelers’ success, being part of four Super Bowl victories and earning Super Bowl IX MVP honors.

The achievements of Harris do not end there. He made nine straight Pro Bowls from 1972 to 1980, as well as being named a First-Team All-Pro in 1977 and a Second-Team All-Pro in 1972 and 1975. He also led the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 1976. His dominance was rewarded by being named to the NFL 1970’s All-Decade Team, his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, and by earning a spot on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ All-Time Team, further cementing himself as a Steelers legend. He truly defined Steelers’ football, and he owns the greatest play in Steelers’ history, the Immaculate Reception.

After his playing career, Harris was inducted into the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor and the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame. No one has worn No. 32 since Harris, and in September of 2022, the Steelers announced that they would be retiring Harris’ number this Saturday when they host the Las Vegas Raiders. The game would also include a celebration for the 50th anniversary of the great Immaculate Reception.