Franco-Steelers-Hall of Fame-dead at 72
The Pittsburgh Steelers and the entire NFL were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris, who died at the age of 72. His death comes just days before the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception, a play that cemented Harris’ place in NFL history. He will be sorely missed by fans, players, and coaches alike.
On Tuesday, the world of football mourned the loss of Hall of Fame running back Franco Harris. Harris played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1972 to 1983, making him an integral part of their transition from also-rans to elite. This weekend was set to be a special one, with events planned to mark the 50th anniversary of The Immaculate Reception, one of the most iconic plays in NFL history. To honor Harris, the Steelers will be retiring his No. 32 jersey at halftime of their game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday. Cause of death has yet to be announced.
President Joe Biden Statement
Mention the name Franco Harris and most people will talk about his famous catch, the Super Bowls he won, and the glory he brought to the football. But for the fifty years we’ve been friends, I always spoke about his character and kindness.
Half a century ago, the Pittsburgh Steelers had just completed a successful regular season and earned their first division title. They celebrated Christmas a few days after defeating the Oakland Raiders with one of the most famous plays in NFL history – the Immaculate Reception, a last-second miracle by their rookie running back, Franco Harris. Though the Steelers would eventually lose the conference championship game to the undefeated Miami Dolphins, Franco went on to a Hall of Fame career that resulted in four Super Bowl titles in six years as the leading team of the 1970s.
It was fifty years ago this week when my wife and infant daughter were killed and my two young sons were severely injured in a car accident while they were out buying a Christmas tree. I had just been elected to the U.S. Senate and was in Washington when I got the call and sped back to Delaware.
Seldom did I leave my kids’ bedside until they recovered. Nevertheless, one day I did go shopping for them. When I arrived back, they were smiling for the first time since the accident. Art Rooney, the generous and noble proprietor of the Steelers, had come out with a few players, comprising of Franco, and the hard-nosed Rocky Bleier. Occupied with their lives, they took the time to be with my boys, sign footballs, and then left without any attention.
Sports have the capability of uniting people in remarkable ways. This Christmas weekend, many families will be sitting around and reminiscing about the incredible feats of Franco as both a Steeler and a Penn State fan. However, there are also many households that will remember him for the way he lifted our spirits when we were feeling low. We don’t need to ask how to show our compassion and kindness; we simply need to reach out, support one another, and share in the enduring strength of our nation.
My folks and I keep fond memories of Franco close to our hearts, especially this week. I saw him twice in 2020 while he was out campaigning in Latrobe and Pittsburgh during September and November.
