Steelers fans react to tragic news that Franco Harris has passed away
By Tommy Jaggi
Franco Harris is one of the most iconic Pittsburgh Steelers players of all time, and fans everywhere are mourning his loss today.
It’s hard to find the words to say in a situation like this. On December 21st, Steelers Nation woke up to some extremely tragic news: Franco Harris passed away at the age of 72. Harris was obviously a Pittsburgh Steelers legend and Hall of Famer who played a pivotal role in winning four Super Bowls in the 70s, but this loss is hard to digest. His cause of death is unknown.
As if Franco Harris’ sudden death isn’t tragic enough, this week marks the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception as the Steelers host the Raiders on Christmas Eve. This game was specifically scheduled this way with the anniversary of the greatest play in football history in mind. Harris was going to be honored at this memorable event. Now the atmosphere on December 24th at Acrisure Stadium is going to have a very different feel.
With this devastating news, Steelers fans, former players, and the media alike were quick to pour out their hearts on social media in remembrance of Franco Harris.
So sad to hear that Franco Harris passed away, just days before the 50th Anniversary of the Immaculate Reception and his number being retired. I was downtown when I heard, so I made a stop at the site of the greatest play in NFL history.
— Dave DiCello (@DaveDiCello) December 21, 2022
Rest in peace to a Pittsburgh legend. pic.twitter.com/F5Pltwt4p0
I thought the Franco Harris news wasn’t real when I first saw it. Such a sad day. Appreciate every day, Yinz. #Steelers #NFL
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) December 21, 2022
32 should of been retired decades ago
— Steeler_Reg (@Reggie_Bflo) December 21, 2022
Franco passing away the week before the 50th anniversary celebration of the Immaculate Recepton just makes this so much more emotional and impactful to the #Steelers community as a whole. Unreal.
— Steelers Takeaways 🌗 (@PittsburghSport) December 21, 2022
https://twitter.com/ShaeMacSports/status/1605524381202931713
When I was a kid I wanted to be Franco Harris. My mom made suits for him. He’s gone way too soon 💔
— J🍩ey Bag 🍩f D🍩nuts 🍩 (@joeybagovdonuts) December 21, 2022
It is difficult to lose those who have shown us that the impossible, the incredible can happen and that if you find a way to put yourself in the right place at the right time, it can happen for you. Franco Harris, an icon, a legend and a wonderful person, will be missed. RIP.
— Bob Hertzel (@bhertzel) December 21, 2022
This feels very similar to when Willie Stargell died the day PNC Park opened.
— Colin Dunlap (@colin_dunlap) December 21, 2022
Just an incredible "how should we feel" moment.
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
Statement from the Pro Football Hall of Fame president Jim Porter on NFL legend Franco Harris, who passed away at age 72. pic.twitter.com/WrUvTHNPR6
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 21, 2022
It’s clear that those who either knew Franco Harris personally or watched him during his playing days are deeply upset by this news. Even a massive fan base of Steelers Nation who didn’t get the privilege of seeing him in action knows how devastating this loss is to such a legendary figure.
All death is tragic, but this one really stings — especially when you consider when it took place. We feel for his family and friends who would be in attendance at Acrisure Stadium this week for the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception, as this is going to be such a tough moment for everyone.
The Steelers vs Raiders game on Christmas Eve now holds even more significance. The organization was set to retire Harris’ number 32 jersey during the game, but Franco won’t be there to see it all. This is such a tough day for everyone. Let’s win one for Franco Harris on Christmas Eve.
Related Story. Steelers news: Franco Harris dies at age 72 on the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception. light