PICTURES-The beginning of an iconic career

Franco Harris, a running back, was chosen in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Franco Harris will always be associated with the Immaculate Reception, widely regarded as the greatest play in NFL history and the greatest play in Steelers history as well.

Prior to his death in 2022, a few days before the Immaculate Reception’s 50th anniversary, Harris stated, “It’s still as exciting.” “Many things started to alter when you consider the amazing season we had in 1972—the team’s first playoff victory and a thrilling victory in the first round—following the first 40 years of the franchise.

The decade to come and the play’s significance in laying the stage for victory were what truly made it noteworthy and significant. We showed that we are capable of winning in any challenging circumstance. That play was extremely significant and influential in Steelers history because of everything that came after.”

For Harris, too, that play was only the beginning of greatness. At Penn State, Harris was selected by the Steelers as the 13th overall choice in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft. He finished his rookie season with 1,055 yards of rushing and 10 touchdowns.

Harris, a veteran of four Super Bowl winning teams, was the team’s mainstay for twelve seasons, contributing significantly to both the passing game and the ground game with his strong style.

With 11,950 yards and 91 rushing touchdowns, he is the team’s all-time leading rusher. He ran for at least 100 yards in 47 games and had eight seasons with 1,000 yards or more. When Harris departed, his 14,622 yards of net yardage was third most. He also added 307 receptions for 2,287 yards.