Penn State, Pittsburgh Steelers great Franco Harris dies at 72: Reports

Penn State and Pittsburgh Steelers great Franco Harris has died, his family has told multiple media outlets. He was 72.

WTAE-TV first reported on Wednesday morning that Harris had passed away. The news comes just days before the Steelers are scheduled to retire the running back’s No. 32 jersey on Saturday. At the same time, it also planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his “Immaculate Reception”. That, of course, lifted Pittsburgh over the Raiders in the 1972 NFL Playoffs.

“I am thrilled we are going to honor Franco with this recognition by retiring his No. 32 jersey,” Steelers president Art Rooney II said in a statement in September when the team announced the jersey retirement. “This is the 50th anniversary of one of the most memorable plays in NFL history; one that changed the course of our success with his ‘Immaculate Reception’ in 1972. My grandfather was once quoted as saying: ‘Before Franco got here, we didn’t win much; Since he got here, we don’t lose.’ I think that sums it up pretty good.

“Franco’s impact on the franchise would be hard to overstate. That is why I think it is fitting and appropriate that we recognize Franco’s remarkable career by retiring his Number 32 at our game on December 24.”

A cause of death was not immediately known. However, “Harris’ son, Dok, told The Associated Press his father died overnight,” the AP reports.

Harris had a long list of accomplishments at Penn State and in Pittsburgh

A New Jersey native, Harris rushed for 2,002 yards at Penn State and 24 touchdowns over three seasons. He was a first-round pick of the Steelers, who were then coached by Chuck Noll, in the 1972 NFL Draft.

“When [Noll] drafted Franco Harris, he gave the offense heart, he gave it discipline, he gave it desire, he gave it the ability to win a championship in Pittsburgh,” former Steelers receiver Lynn Swann told ESPN.

After being named the NFL’s Rookie of the Year in 1992, Harris would go on to run for 12,120 yards and 91 touchdowns over a 13-year pro career. It led him to the NFL Hall of Fame. Harris is also in the Steelers Hall of Honor. And, he won four Super Bowl rings in the ‘Steel City’, among many other accomplishments. He was the NFL Man of the Year in 1976. And, he made nine Pro Bowl.

According to The Associated Press, Harris is survived by his wife Dana Dokmanovich, and his son, Dok.

Franklin, Kraft, release statements on Harris’ passing

Penn State released statements from head football coach James Franklin and athletic director Pat Kraft on Harris’ passing.

“Our thoughts are with Franco Harris’ wife, Dana. We send our deepest condolences to his entire family, his friends, the Steelers organization. And, all whose lives were impacted by Franco,” Franklin said. “His professional career and accomplishments speak for itself as a Pro Football Hall of Famer, four-time Super Bowl Champion and nine-time Pro Bowl selection.

“But, it was his toughness and team-first approach as a Nittany Lion that will long be remembered by Penn Staters. Franco was a true steward of the Blue & White and he will be sorely missed.”

Added Kraft:

“As a child growing up in the Midwest, Franco Harris was a legendary figure, who I was always enamored with. When I was blessed to join the Penn State family earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to get to know Franco and his wife, Dana, very well. They have been so gracious with their kindness and support. Franco was known for his grit and unrelenting style on the field. But, his compassion, warmth, generosity off the field will leave a lasting impression on me. I am heartbroken for all who loved him. We have lost a true legend and friend.”