Pittsburgh Steelers Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris passes away at 72

Sources confirmed to Pittsburgh Action News 4, that Franco Harris, the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall-of-Famer died of natural causes at the age of 72, a few days before the 50th anniversary of Immaculate reception.

Harris's career with the Steelers, lasted from 1972 to 1983. He was famously known for an incredible play that won the Steelers their first playoff game 50 years ago. Several social events were planned in Pittsburgh in the days ahead marking the anniversary of the Immaculate reception.

Harris was instrumental in helping Pittsburgh win four Super Bowl titles in six seasons during the 1970s. He played his entire NFL career with the Steelers after being drafted out of Penn State No. 13 overall in 1972. After rushing for 1,055 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie, Harris was named to his first of nine Pro Bowl appearances in 1973.



"The entire Pro Football Hall of Fame family mourns the passing of Franco Harris," said David Baker, Hall of Fame president and CEO, in a statement. "We will forever keep his legacy alive to serve as inspiration for future generations."

He played all but one season with the Steelers and rushed for 12,120 yards and 91 touchdowns during his career. Harris is best remembered for making "The Immaculate Reception" on December 23, 1972, when he caught a deflected pass from quarterback Terry Bradshaw and ran it into the end zone to beat Oakland in an AFC playoffs game. The play is considered one of the most famous in NFL history. His Immaculate Reception provided one of the most thrilling moments in team history when his 60-yard touchdown reception gave Pittsburgh a 13-7 playoff victory against the heavily favored Oakland Raiders.

FAQs:

1. When was Franco Harris inducted into the Hall of Fame ?
   Harris, who played 13 seasons in the NFL (1972-84) and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990.
2. What position did Franco Harris play?
   Franco Harris played running back.