7 Pittsburgh Steelers who contributed to black history

Franco Harris

Franco Harris was the ballcarrier for the 70s Steelers. When they drafted him, he was more of a blocking back from the Nittany Lions. Many thought they were going to draft his teammate at Penn State, Lydell Mitchell who was a more dynamic runner in college

Franco Harris went to nine straight Pro Bowls in the 70s and was most famous for catching the “Immaculate Reception”.  This will forever be one of the most famous plays in football history. I was where a pass was thrown and it bounced up in the air and Franco Harris of all people caught it and it changed the outcome of the game.

Franco Harris’s statue stands on the pathway to the baggage claim from the Terminal at the Pittsburgh Airport. Franco will forever be a symbol of Pittsburgh’s athletic might. Pittsburgh is not a major US city but has some of the most historic sports teams including the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Franco was a fullback but has the running ability that would remind you of the running backs of today. He was a 1,000-yard rusher when that was a big accomplishment. Modern running backs overtake that because the game has become much more offensive.

Franco Harris is biracial as his mother was an Italian “War Bride” and his father was of African descent. Harris will forever be symbolic of the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh.