Steelers Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris dead at 72

[ADLER]

Franco was one of the former Steelers and NFL Hall Of Fame players that came to Apogee for the unveiling of Mean Joe Greene's statue.

 

PITTSBURGH —

Pittsburgh Steelers Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris has died at the age of 72, just days before the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception, sources confirmed to Pittsburgh’s Action News 4.

Harris played for the Steelers from 1972 to 1983 and was famous for that incredible play that won the Steelers their first playoff game 50 years ago.

Several events were planned in Pittsburgh in the days ahead marking the anniversary of The Immaculate Reception.

The cause of Franco Harris’ death was not immediately known.

[NorthTexan95]

Much too young.  He seemed to be a really good guy who always came to celebrations for his old teammates.  He was here when Joe Greene's statue was unveiled.  

[greenminer]

12 minutes ago, NorthTexan95 said:

Much too young.  

He was 72.

I think you’re using that in the sense that, you would still say it if he was 93.

I’ve just never heard it used that way before. not giving you a hard time.

Edited December 21, 2022 by greenminer

[Cooley]

The only authentic jersey I have

[NorthTexan95]

7 minutes ago, greenminer said:

He was 72.

I think you’re using that in the sense that, you would still say it if he was 93.

I’ve just never heard it used that way before. not giving you a hard time.

No problem.  I might not say it if he was 93 but at 73, seemingly in good health physically and mentally, he would have another 10 to 20 years to spend with family and friends.  

[Mean Green 93-98]

One of my heroes back in the day.  A great player, and an even better man, according to those who knew him.

[UNTLifer]

Hated him as a player, being a Cowboys fan, but really respected him as a person after I learned more about him.  As mentioned above, he came to the unveiling of Mr. Greene's statue, and seemed like a genuinely nice person.  Hard to believe he was in his early 70's, but he did seem in great shape.  Any cause of death noted?  Prayers with his family.

[Venson]

Being a Steelers fan, I hated to wake up to this news. Prayers for his family. Steelers Nation will miss you.

[cousin oliver]

[SilverEagle]

2 hours ago, NorthTexan95 said:

No problem.  I might not say it if he was 93 but at 73, seemingly in good health physically and mentally, he would have another 10 to 20 years to spend with family and friends.  

The appropriate word when you are talking about former pro football players.....especially the starters. Those body and head blows add up.

[greenjoe]

As a 71 year old, I agree 72 is way too young.  
 

As an old Cowboy fan (when I watched pro football),  I used to hate Franco. That’s the best compliment I can offer.  Good job 32.

[UNTLifer]

Talked to a friend/co-worker that lives just outside of Pittsburgh.  He said Harris received an award in the last few days for charitable work in that area and his sister attended.  Said Harris looked great.  Really sad deal.