(Pittsburgh) Franco Harris, a Pro Football Hall of Fame running back whose presence of mind spawned the “Immaculate Reception,” a play considered the most unforgettable in National League history. soccer, is dead. He was 72 years old.
Her son Dok told The Associated Press that Harris died overnight. The cause was not specified.
His death occurs two days before the 50e anniversary of the game that provided the momentum that would transform the Pittsburgh Steelers from mediocre training to elite NFL club. It also comes three days before the ceremony at which the Steelers will retire his number 32 jersey at halftime of Saturday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Throughout his career, Harris rushed for 12,120 yards and contributed to four Super Bowl victories for the Steelers during the 1970s. run in the last play of a playoff game against the Oakland Raiders in 1972.
RCG ARCHIVE PHOTO PROVIDED BY ASSOCIATED PRESS
Franco Harris, September 10, 1978.