Franco Harris pictured with John Fuqua in 2012 at a ceremony commemorating the 40th anniversary of Harris' 'Immaculate Reception'
Franco Harris (left) and John Fuqua attended a ceremony commemorating the 40th anniversary of the 'Immaculate Reception' in 2012

Franco Harris passed away at the age of 72.

The catch that became known as the 'Immaculate Reception' was made by Harris while he was a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Harris ran in the game-winning touchdown after the ball was thrown to him in the play-off game.

In 2019 the play was voted as the greatest in NFL history.

Harris scored a 60-yard touchdown with 22 seconds left in the AFC divisional play-off when Terry Bradshaw attempted a throw towards John Fuqua but the ball bounced towards Harris, who stooped to catch the ball before running down the sideline.

Although they did not reach the Super Bowl that season, Harris went on to help them win four times in the next seven years.

The Raiders, who are now based in Las Vegas, and Harris' famous number 32 will be retired by the Steelers when they host them on Saturday.

Jim Porter, president of the Hall of Fame, said "we have lost an incredible football player, an incredible ambassador to the Hall and most importantly, we have lost one of the finest gentlemen anyone will ever meet."

Harris was selected by Pittsburgh with the 13th pick in the 1972 draft and spent 12 years with the team before playing for Seattle in 1984.

He was a nine-time Pro Bowler and finished his football career with over 12,000 rushing yards.

"Franco not only impacted the game of football, but he also affected the lives of many, many people in profoundly positive ways."

Franco's football story will always be told by the Hall of Fame. Without including his greatness off the field, his life story can't be fully told.

Harris earned the NFL's Man of the Year award in 1976 for his commitment to philanthropy.

Harris was named the game's Most Valuable Player after he ran for 158 yards in the Super Bowl 9 win over the Vikings.

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