Football History

Franco Harris was more than just a running back; he was a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s and a beloved figure in the world of football. His career, spanning 13 seasons from 1972 to 1984, was marked by exceptional talent, clutch performances, and a place in Super Bowl history.

A Rising Star and the "Immaculate Reception":

Drafted by the Steelers in 1972, Harris quickly established himself as a key contributor. His rookie season was forever etched in history with the iconic "Immaculate Reception," a controversial play in the AFC Divisional playoffs against the Oakland Raiders. Harris' reception, initially ruled a touchdown, solidified his place in Steelers lore and propelled them to the Super Bowl.

Super Bowl Dominance and Consistent Production:

Harris played a crucial role in all four of the Steelers' Super Bowl victories in the 1970s, earning Super Bowl IX MVP honors for his dominant performance in 1975. He rushed for 101 carries and 354 yards in his Super Bowl appearances, ranking among the all-time leaders in these categories.

Beyond his Super Bowl success, Harris consistently delivered impressive results throughout his career. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in eight seasons and finished his career with 12,120 rushing yards, ranking him among the top-10 rushers in NFL history at the time of his retirement.

An Unorthodox Style and Enduring Legacy:[b]

Harris's running style, characterized by a high leg kick and avoiding unnecessary contact, initially drew skepticism. However, his effectiveness and longevity silenced his critics. He was known for his quick thinking, his ability to make defenders miss tackles, and his exceptional work ethic.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, a franchise synonymous with excellence and tradition, have a storied history marked by legendary players and iconic moments. At the heart of this legacy are the retired jersey numbers that honor some of the greatest athletes to ever step onto the gridiron. Each retired number symbolizes more than just a player; it represents the enduring impact, leadership, and prowess that have defined the Steelers' remarkable success over the years.

In this series of posts, we will delve into the stories behind each retired jersey number of the Pittsburgh Steelers, celebrating the extraordinary individuals who wore them. From the fearsome defenders who redefined the art of tackling to the dynamic playmakers who dazzled fans with their skill, these numbers commemorate the contributions of players whose excellence elevated the franchise to new heights.

We will explore the significant achievements and memorable moments associated with each retired number, offering insights into how these legends shaped not only the Steelers' legacy but also the broader landscape of the NFL. Through detailed profiles and historical context, this series will provide a comprehensive look at the careers of these iconic figures, highlighting their impact both on and off the field.

Join us as we pay tribute to the heroes of the Pittsburgh Steelers' past, celebrating the individuals who have left an indelible mark on the team and the sport of football. Each post will bring to life the storied careers and enduring contributions of the players whose jersey numbers have been immortalized in Steelers history.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-[b]Jersey Number 32
Franco Harris 1972–1983

-Jersey Number 70
Ernie Stautner 1950–1963

-Jersey Number 75
Joe Greene 1969–1981

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

The exceptional running back from Penn State drove the ground game and offensive success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Franco Harris wasn't just a running back; he was a symbol of Steelers dynasty, blue-collar spirit, and one of the most celebrated figures in NFL history. From his iconic run in Super Bowl IX to his longevity and consistency, Harris left an indelible mark on the gridiron that continues to inspire.

Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1972, Harris immediately made an impact. His powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone made him a perfect fit for the "Steel Curtain" era. He formed a dynamic duo with quarterback Terry Bradshaw, terrorizing defenses and leading the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in six years.

But Harris wasn't just about touchdowns. He was a complete back, excelling in both rushing and receiving. His durability was legendary, racking up over 12,000 rushing yards and 91 touchdowns in his 13-year career, despite playing in a physically demanding era.

His most iconic moment came in Super Bowl IX, when his 64-yard touchdown run in the dying moments of the game sealed victory for the Steelers against the Minnesota Vikings. This "Immaculate Reception," forever etched in NFL lore, solidified Harris's place as a Steelers legend and one of the sport's most unforgettable moments.

Harris's impact transcended the field. He was a leader in the locker room and a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. His blue-collar work ethic and infectious smile resonated with fans, making him a symbol of the city's resilience and character.