Franco Harris, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history and a four-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers, died on December 20, 2022, at the age of 72. His death shocked the football world, as it came just two days before the 50th anniversary of his iconic “Immaculate Reception” play, which is widely regarded as the most memorable play in NFL history. Harris was also set to have his No. 32 jersey retired by the Steelers during their Week 16 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
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How did Franco Harris die?
According to his son, Franco Harris Jr., the Hall of Fame running back died of natural causes in his sleep at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. He had no known health issues and was active until his final days. He had recently attended a charity event in Pittsburgh and was planning to travel to Las Vegas for the jersey retirement ceremony.
Harris’ son said that his father was “at peace” and “happy” when he passed away. He also said that his father was proud of his legacy and grateful for his fans and teammates. “He loved the game of football, he loved the Steelers organization, he loved the city of Pittsburgh, and he loved all the people who supported him throughout his life,” Franco Harris Jr. said.
What was Franco Harris’ impact on football?
Franco Harris was a dominant force on the field and a beloved figure off it. He played 13 seasons in the NFL, 12 with the Steelers and one with the Seattle Seahawks. He rushed for 12,120 yards and 91 touchdowns, and caught 307 passes for 2,287 yards and nine touchdowns. He made nine Pro Bowls, two All-Pro teams, and was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1972 and the NFL Man of the Year in 1976. He also won four Super Bowls with the Steelers in the 1970s, and was named the MVP of Super Bowl IX after rushing for 158 yards and a touchdown.
Harris is best known for his role in the “Immaculate Reception” play, which occurred on December 23, 1972, in a playoff game against the Oakland Raiders. With 22 seconds left and the Steelers trailing by one point, quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw a desperation pass that bounced off either Raiders defender Jack Tatum or Steelers receiver Frenchy Fuqua (the exact details are still disputed) and into Harris’ hands near midfield. Harris then ran all the way to the end zone for a touchdown that gave the Steelers a 13-7 win and their first playoff victory in franchise history. The play is considered to be a turning point for the Steelers, who went on to become a dynasty in the following years.
Harris was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. He is ranked sixth on the NFL’s all-time rushing list, and holds several records, including most rushing yards in Super Bowl history (354) and most consecutive seasons with 1,000 rushing yards (eight). He is also one of only two players to rush for more than 100 yards in four different Super Bowls (the other is John Riggins).
How did Franco Harris’ death affect the Steelers and their fans?
Franco Harris’ death was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from his former teammates, coaches, opponents, fans, and other NFL figures. Many praised him for his excellence on the field, his humility and generosity off it, and his impact on the game and society.
Steelers president Art Rooney II issued a statement saying that Harris was “a true legend” who “will always be remembered as one of our greatest players.” He also said that Harris was “a leader in our community” who “dedicated much of his time to numerous charitable causes.” Rooney said that the Steelers would honor Harris by retiring his jersey number during their game against the Raiders on December 23, which would mark exactly 50 years since the “Immaculate Reception” play.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said that Harris was “a pillar of this organization” who “set a standard for excellence” that inspired generations of players. He also said that Harris was “a mentor” who “always had time for anyone who needed his advice or guidance.” Tomlin said that he would miss Harris’ presence and friendship.
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said that Harris was “a legend” who “taught me so much about football and life.” He also said that Harris was “a great teammate” who “always had my back.” Roethlisberger said that he would always cherish his memories with Harris.
Many other former Steelers players expressed their sadness and admiration for Harris on social media. Among them were Terry Bradshaw, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mel Blount, Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Rocky Bleier, Jerome Bettis, Hines Ward, and Troy Polamalu. They all shared stories and photos of their time with Harris, and thanked him for his friendship and leadership.
Other NFL legends also paid their respects to Harris, including Jim Brown, Walter Payton, Emmitt Smith, Barry Sanders, Eric Dickerson, Marshall Faulk, LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, and Derrick Henry. They all recognized Harris as one of the greatest running backs of all time, and praised him for his skill, style, and class.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said that Harris was “a Hall of Famer in every sense” who “epitomized the values of the NFL.” He also said that Harris was “a champion on and off the field” who “made a lasting impact on the game and society.” Goodell said that the NFL would honor Harris by observing a moment of silence before every game in Week 16.
Steelers fans also mourned the loss of Harris, who was one of their most beloved players. Many fans wore his jersey or held signs with his name and number at the Steelers-Raiders game. They also cheered loudly when a video tribute to Harris was played on the stadium screen during halftime. Some fans also visited the statue of Harris that depicts the “Immaculate Reception” play outside Heinz Field. They left flowers, candles, cards, and other memorabilia to honor his memory.
Franco Harris was a football icon who left an indelible mark on the sport and the world. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, teammates, fans, and everyone who knew him. He will also be forever remembered as one of the greatest players of all time. Rest in peace, Franco Harris.
