Yesterday, it was announced that former Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks running back, Franco Harris, had passed away suddenly.
Harris was a four-time Super Bowl champion, Rookie of the Year in 1972, and a Super Bowl MVP.
Current Steelers coach, Mike Tomlin shared a few sentiments yesterday about Harris.
Coach Tomlin on Franco Harris: pic.twitter.com/9omrIwiIcj
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 20, 2022
In these comments, Tomlin addresses the man that Harris was, rather than his play on the field.
Tomlin could have talked about the incredible play that Harris demonstrated throughout his career, but, as they had a personal relationship, used this time to talk about Harris’ community involvement, and the person he was off of the field.
Harris was known for off-field efforts such as creating a nutritious program for elementary schools, was an ambassador for the 1982 World’s Fair, and co-owned the Pittsburgh Passion, a women’s football team.
Harris’ On-Field Heroics
Although Harris was a four-time Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, and Rookie of the Year, he has one play that is forever enshrined in NFL history.
The Immaculate Reception.
En route to one of his four Super Bowls, Franco was playing in an AFC divisional game against the Oakland Raiders.
The Steelers were down 6-0 and were in desperate need of a score.
On fourth down, quarterback Terry Bradshaw rifled a pass downfield that was deflected and happened to fall right into Harris’ hands.
He ended up scoring a touchdown on this play, which has been often dubbed the greatest play in NFL history.
This play will live on for years to come as part of Harris’ incredible legacy.
Thank you, Franco Harris.
