The NFL world has been struck by the loss of a legend. Passing at the age of 72, this icon’s impact on the sport is undeniable. The deep sorrow felt by the football world at the loss of Franco Harris cannot be easily put into words. Beloved by fans across the board, Harris was an icon who shined on and off the field.
Etching his name in the history books, Harris’ “Immaculate Reception” in 1972 is a revered tale passed from generation to generation. As a fullback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he cemented his name as one of the greatest to take the field. The four-time Super Bowl champion and Pro Hall of Famer carved a niche as a player and individual.
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While his excellence on the field won him accolades, the man he was off the field will always remain in the hearts and minds of the NFL world.
The NFL world grieves the sudden loss of an individual who transcended the boundaries of the sport
Friends, fans, and others in the NFL world deeply mourned the loss of a legend who did so much more than entertain. Franco Harris’ impact transcended the world of football. Upon hearing the news of his passing President of the United States, Joe Biden expressed his condolences.
Franco Harris is known for the glory he brought to football. But I knew him for his character and compassion – someone who spent time with my boys after we lost my first wife and infant daughter.
May God bless Franco Harris, a dear friend of 50 years and a great American. pic.twitter.com/YhOYr3a4IM
— President Biden (@POTUS) December 21, 2022
Another important figure, former president Barack Obama, who grew up watching the legend, also sent his thoughts to Harris’ family.
I grew up watching Franco Harris, and had the honor of getting to know him years later. He was an extraordinary man on and off the field, and will be missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and all of Steeler Nation.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 21, 2022
Hillary Clinton quoted Harris while expressing her condolences.
During his Hall of Fame acceptance speech, Franco Harris said he often thought: “How can I help my team? Can they count on me when it was needed?”
They could, and the example he set reached far beyond the football field. Thinking of his family and everyone mourning his passing.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) December 21, 2022
Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe expressed how he’s become a better person after meeting Harris
.@ShannonSharpe remembers NFL Hall of Famer Franco Harris:
“He was my mom’s favorite player. I took my 3rd grade pictures in a #32 Steelers jersey. Franco was a great, honest, humble man. I’m better now that I’ve met him, known him & consider him a friend.” pic.twitter.com/UP7H8Z2D0J
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) December 21, 2022
Other names in the NFL tried to put their grief into words. Tony Dungy expressed how Harris was so much more than a great player.
Woke up this morning to the devastating news that my friend Franco Harris passed away during the night. One of the kindest, gentlest men I have ever known. He was a great person & great teammate. Hall of Fame player but so much more than that. A tremendous role model for me! pic.twitter.com/OswJ82x7I1
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) December 21, 2022
Franco Harris’ former quarterback and friend Terry Bradshaw, who found it difficult to take in the news of his teammate’s passing tried to convey some thoughts.
Terry Bradshaw mourns the loss of his dear friend
In conversation with Rich Eisen, the former Steelers QB recounted his time with Harris two weeks ago. While filming for an immaculate interception NFT, the duo was able to spend some time together. He said, “As we always do when we’re together we had so much fun laughing and kinda picking at one another and it was a great evening”
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Speaking of hearing the saddening news he said, “And then all of a sudden at 3 AM this morning you get a notification that he passes away and you know, you just try to put it in perspective.” From the reactions seen in the NFL world, Harris’ impact on the game is clearly evident. The loss of this beloved icon will be deeply mounted by the football world. Harris has left an indelible mark on the game. His impact will not be forgotten any time soon. One of Bradshaw’s statements echoes what fans are feeling in the wake of this sudden loss. “While we mourn the loss we celebrate the life and impact he had on all of us”
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