Franco Harris, the Hall of Fame running back who scored possibly the greatest touchdown in NFL history, died on December 20 at the age of 72.
So, keep reading this article to learn more about him and what caused his death.
Who Was Franco Harris?
Franco Harris was a famous American professional football player who was born on March 7, 1950. He played running back for 13 seasons in the National Football League, mainly for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In his professional career, Harris won four Super Bowl titles. In Super Bowl IX, he was named MVP after rushing for 158 yards against the Minnesota Vikings to lead the Steelers to their first-ever league title.
He was an essential part of the “Immaculate Reception,” a famous play in professional football that gave the Steelers their first-ever playoff win.
After playing college football for Penn State, the Steelers picked him with the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft. His first 12 seasons in the NFL were with the Steelers, and his last season was with the Seahawks.
Harris made his first of nine Pro Bowls in 1973 after rushing for 1,055 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie.
After graduating from Penn State in 1972 and being picked 13th overall by the Steelers, he played his entire NFL career with them.
In 1990, he was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
What Was Franco Harris’s Cause Of Death?
The Economic Times says that Franco Harris, a Hall of Fame player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, died of natural causes at the age of 72. However, no official explanation for his passing has been provided.
He died just a few days before the 50th anniversary of the famous play “Immaculate Reception,” which was chosen as the NFL’s greatest moment for the NFL 100 celebration in 2019.
The Steelers were going to retire Franco’s No. 32 jersey at Acrisure Stadium to honor the 50th anniversary of his catch against the Oakland Raiders in the 1972 AFC divisional playoffs, which was during his rookie season.
Grieving Over Franco Harris’s Passing
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=699623178192938&set=a.276577847164142&type=3
Legendary Steelers RB Franco Harris, author of the “Immaculate Reception” – one of the greatest plays in NFL history – has passed away at the age of 72.
A 4-time Super Bowl champion, Hall of Fame player and revered individual by so many.
RIP.pic.twitter.com/hUERPwHVwo
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 21, 2022
A pillar in the history of our league. #RIP #FrancoHarris pic.twitter.com/Zz42doRXQZ
— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) December 21, 2022
Joe Biden's statement on Franco Harris's passing. pic.twitter.com/zXYQadPbUF
— Bryan Armen Graham (@BryanAGraham) December 21, 2022
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