Harris quickly made his mark upon being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1972, becoming an integral member of their lineup and running for an then-team record 1,055 yards during his rookie campaign – earning himself an NFL Rookie of the Year award in his rookie year.
He was the driving force behind their Super Bowl dynasty and earned four rings as captain of his team. Additionally, he amassed 307 receptions for 2,287 yards during his career – an astounding figure in modern NFL lore!
History
Born to Cad and Gina Harris of Fort Dix, New Jersey, he developed a strong work ethic as part of a large family unit. While working small jobs to earn money for education costs, Cad and Gina Harris instilled within them the value of education as part of a life-long pursuit.
Franco Harris net worth began his football career at Rancocas Valley Regional High School in Mount Holly, New Jersey under coach Bill Gordon before earning a full scholarship to Penn State University under legendary coach Joe Paterno.
Harris set himself apart early by becoming only the fourth NFL rookie ever to rush for 1,000 yards in his rookie campaign, becoming Pittsburgh Steelers all-time rushing leader with 11,950 yards and 91 touchdowns.
He won four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including their inaugural league championship in Super Bowl IX. A member of their Hall of Fame, his catch in 1972’s playoff game that gave them their inaugural playoff win is revered as “The Immaculate Reception.” It remains one of pro football’s most iconic moments.
Achievements
Harris won four Super Bowl championships with the Pittsburgh Steelers and became both an African American and Italian-American to earn the NFL MVP award.
Harris was selected by the Steelers 13th overall in 1972 and played on their team for 12 years, amassing 12,000 yards rushing and 100 touchdowns during this time.
His successes were due to both his talent and perseverance; he led the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories while being honored with nine Pro Bowl selections.
At one of professional football’s most memorable plays – the “Immaculate Reception” – Harris made history for the Steelers by stepping in front of Terry Bradshaw’s last second pass and blocking its landing with his body. This action helped propel them from being considered mid-tier team into one of its premier squads within the NFL.
Personality
Personality describes an individual’s behavioral and mental characteristics that show his unique identity and make him appealing to others. Psychologists have spent centuries studying this complex phenomenon.
There are various theories to help understand how people develop and structure their personalities, with trait theory being one such model that views personality traits as influencing behavior in various situations.
People who score highly for agreeableness and conscientiousness tend to be more successful and productive members of society, while those with high extraversion and neuroticism scores may struggle with developing close relationships.
Personality can also be affected by other external influences, including culture and the environment in which an individual was raised, which can have a profound effect on them throughout their life.
Off-the-Field
At every turn in his career, Harris demonstrated his dedication to his community by volunteering. He participated in several charitable events and served as an Ambassador for Special Olympics Pennsylvania.
He received the NFL Community Spirit Award, presented annually to a player who best balances impactful community service with success on the field. This honor comes with both a $500 check and plaque.
On his time off the field, Harris would engage in charitable works, attend fundraisers and volunteer at children’s hospitals – as well as spending quality time with family and friends. He was beloved member of both the Pittsburgh Steelers community as well as its cityscape.
His death occurred just days before the 50th anniversary of Harris’ “Immaculate Reception” touchdown catch for the Steelers against Oakland Raiders in 1972 – widely considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history and which led to an extraordinary Hall-of-Famer career for Harris as well as an NFL powerhouse transformation for Pittsburgh.
