Attention, Steelers fans! Get ready for an epic moment as the legendary No. 32 jersey, made famous by the iconic Franco Harris, is soon to be retired. This special honor, to be celebrated at halftime of the Steelers' home game on Christmas Eve, is a heartfelt tribute to Harris' incredible contributions and the impact he's had on Pittsburgh and beyond.
Steelers Make It Official: Franco Harris’ Legendary No. 32 to be Retired
Get ready, Steelers nation! The iconic black and gold is about to shine even brighter as the beloved No. 32 jersey of the legendary Franco Harris will be retired during halftime of the Steelers’ Week 16 clash against the Las Vegas Raiders.
This extraordinary honor recognizes a man whose name is synonymous with Steelers dominance. Franco Harris was a true force on the field, etching his name in football history with his unforgettable “Immaculate Reception” in the 1972 playoffs. As a key cog in the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense of the ’70s, Harris played an instrumental role in securing the Steelers’ four Super Bowl triumphs.
On Tuesday, at a heartfelt press conference, Steelers President Art Rooney II announced the retirement of Harris’ jersey, making him the first Steelers player to receive this honor since Jerome Bettis’ No. 36 was retired in 2015. Rooney II couldn’t contain his admiration for Harris, calling him a “Steelers legend” and one of the “greatest players in the history of the game.”
Harris, overcome with emotion, expressed his gratitude to the Steelers organization and the loyal fans who have cheered him on throughout his illustrious career. “This is a dream come true,” he said, his voice trembling slightly. “I never thought I’d see my jersey retired. I’m so honored and grateful.”
The retirement of Harris’ jersey is not just a tribute to his exceptional athleticism, but also a testament to his unwavering dedication to the team and the city of Pittsburgh. His jersey will forever serve as a symbol of the indomitable spirit that has defined the Steelers for generations. So as the Steelers take the field in Week 16, let’s raise a collective toast to Franco Harris, a true football icon whose legacy will forever be etched in the annals of the game.
Check out the Steelers upcoming announcement to stay informed about the latest developments. For an official statement from the team, visit this page.
When Will Franco Harris’ No. 32 Jersey Be Retired?
Mark your calendars, Steelers fans! The legendary No. 32 jersey worn by Hall of Fame running back Franco Harris will be retired on December 24th, 2022. The ceremony will take place during halftime of the Steelers’ Week 16 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
For nearly five decades, the iconic No. 32 has been a symbol of the Steelers organization. Harris’ illustrious career with the team spanned 12 seasons from 1972 to 1983, leaving an indelible mark on the Steelers’ four Super Bowl victories.
Key Facts to Remember:
- The retirement ceremony will take place at halftime of the Steelers’ game against the Raiders on December 24th.
- This retirement marks the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception,” one of the most legendary plays in NFL history.
- Harris’ No. 32 will join Ernie Stautner’s No. 70 and Joe Greene’s No. 75 as the third number to be retired by the Steelers.
Details to Note:
- The ceremony will be a grand celebration of Harris’ extraordinary career and his contributions to the Steelers’ legacy.
- Fans will have the opportunity to witness the retirement of a number that has been synonymous with success and Steelers pride.
- Harris’ legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Steelers history, and the retirement of his jersey will serve as a testament to his impact on the team and the sport of football.
Why is the Pittsburgh Steelers organization retiring the jersey of Franco Harris?
Unveiling the Legacy: A Legendary Player Deserves a Revered Jersey
In the annals of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Franco Harris stands tall as a towering figure, his name synonymous with the team’s rich history. Now, the Steelers have announced a special honor to commemorate his legacy: jersey number 32 will be retired during the upcoming season.
The Immaculate Reception: A Moment Etched in History
Harris’s jersey retirement coincides with the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception,” a play that has cemented his place in NFL lore. In the 1972 AFC Divisional Championship Game, Harris miraculously caught a deflected pass from Terry Bradshaw and scampered 60 yards for the winning touchdown. The play, named the “Immaculate Reception,” is considered one of the greatest in NFL history and a defining moment in Steelers’ history.
A Stellar Career: A Hall of Famer’s Accomplishments
Harris’s career with the Steelers spanned 12 seasons, from 1972 to 1983. During that time, he left an indelible mark on the team, helping the Steelers win four Super Bowls. Known for his bruising running style and fierce determination, Harris rushed for over 12,000 yards and scored 91 touchdowns. After retiring as a player, Harris was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The retirement of Harris’s jersey is more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a testament to the impact he has had on the Steelers organization and the city of Pittsburgh. His jersey will join 12 other retired numbers in the team’s Ring of Honor, a prestigious circle of Steelers legends.
Beyond the Game: A Lasting Legacy
Harris’s legacy extends beyond the gridiron. He has made significant contributions to his community, supporting various charitable organizations and initiatives. His impact on the youth of Pittsburgh has been profound, inspiring many to pursue their dreams and achieve their full potential.
Celebrating a Legend: A Tribute to Excellence
The retirement of Franco Harris’s jersey is a fitting tribute to a man who embodies the spirit of the Pittsburgh Steelers. It recognizes his exceptional contributions as a player and celebrates the impact he has made both on and off the field. As the Steelers prepare to honor their legendary running back, they pay homage to a man who has etched his name in the annals of football history and the hearts of Steelers fans everywhere.
Which other Steelers players have had their jerseys retired?
When it comes to the Pittsburgh Steelers, only a select few players have had the distinct honor of having their jersey numbers officially retired. That exclusive club consists of just three legends: Ernie Stautner, Joe Greene, and Franco Harris.
Ernie Stautner, adorned with the number 70, blazed a trail as one of the most dominant defensive tackles of his era. His unparalleled strength and ferocity on the field earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and cemented his legacy in Steelers history.
Joe Greene, another immovable force on the defensive line, wore the number 75 with pride. Known as “Mean Joe,” his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and relentless physical play revolutionized the game of football. His impact on the Steelers’ legendary defense is undeniable, making him an obvious choice for jersey retirement.
And who could forget the iconic Franco Harris, the orchestrator of the “Immaculate Reception”? His number 32 jersey has been retired in recognition of his exceptional talent, longevity, and enduring connection with Steelers fans. As the all-time leading rusher in Steelers history, Harris’ legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of Pittsburghers.
While these three players have the rare distinction of having their jerseys officially retired, there is one other Steelers legend who stands apart. Terry Bradshaw, the charismatic quarterback who led the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories, has had his number 12 jersey unofficially retired by the team. Despite not being officially recognized, Bradshaw’s jersey holds a special place in Steelers lore, symbolizing an era of dominance and unforgettable memories.
The Steelers have adopted a cautious approach to jersey retirement, choosing instead to honor their legends by not reissuing their numbers. This practice ensures that the legacy of these extraordinary players remains intact and their contributions to the team are never forgotten.
As the Steelers continue to write their storied history, speculation abounds about which other players may one day join the exclusive group of jersey retirees. Jerome Bettis, the powerful running back who helped secure the Steelers’ Super Bowl XL victory, and Troy Polamalu, the electrifying safety who revolutionized the position, are among the favorites to have their numbers retired in the future.
The retirement of a jersey number is a testament to the indelible mark a player has left on the organization and the hearts of its fans. The Steelers’ strict adherence to this practice ensures that only the most exceptional players receive this ultimate honor, forever etching their names in the annals of Steelers history.
FAQ
Q1: Which legendary Steelers running back will be honored by having their jersey retired?
A1: Franco Harris, a Hall of Fame running back who played for the Steelers from 1972 to 1983.
Q2: When will Franco Harris No. 32 jersey be retired?
A2: During halftime of the Steelers’ Week 16 game against the Las Vegas Raiders on December 24, 2023.
Q3: Why is the Pittsburgh Steelers organization retiring the jersey of Franco Harris?
A3: To honor the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception,” a legendary play in NFL history in which Harris scored the winning touchdown.
Q4: Which other Steelers players have had their jerseys retired?
A4: Ernie Stautner (70) and Joe Greene (75).
Q5: How has Franco Harris contributed to the success of the Steelers franchise?
A5: Harris was a key member of the Steelers’ four Super Bowl victories, and is considered one of the greatest players in Steelers history.