5 greatest undrafted free agents in Pittsburgh Steelers history

James Harrison

Harrison managed a 15-year NFL career and two tours of duty with the Steelers for being an undrafted free agent. The Steelers signed Harrison out of Kent State, which made the signing worthwhile, considering Jack Lambert came from Kent State.

The early part of Harrison’s career had him on the bench most of that time, and he only had four sacks in four seasons. Then between 2007 and 2012, he racked up 61 sacks. He finished his career with 80.5 with the Steelers and 84.5 when you include the Bengals and Patriots.

However, sacks aside, Harrison has the second most forced fumbles in Steelers history with 33 and 34 for a career. In the NFL, on the whole, his 34 forced fumbles rank him 18 overall. The only Steelers player ranking head of him in team history is Greg Lloyd, who had 35.

Oddly, being a sack master and causing numerous fumbles is not what fans remember him for the most. His entire career boiled down to one play, albeit one play that eventually led to the Steelers winning their 6th NFL championship.

It was in Superbowl XLIII when James Harrison, just before halftime, intercepted a pass running it back 99 yards for a touchdown giving the Steelers the lead going into halftime. The interception was timely, if he did not intercept it, the Cardinals were poised to take a 14-10 halftime lead. It’s hard to fathom why the NFL has not enshrined Harrison in Canton. He is certainly deserving of it.