As the Pittsburgh Steelers approach the kickoff of the 2026 NFL season, fans are counting down the days until they can see their team take the field once again. With just 32 days remaining until the Steelers host the Atlanta Falcons on September 13, the franchise is reflecting on the legacy of its past players, particularly those who wore the number 32.
Currently, there is no player wearing the No. 32 jersey for the Steelers, as the number has been retired in honor of the legendary Franco Harris. Harris is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise, and his contributions to the team and the sport have left an indelible mark.
Franco Harris was drafted by the Steelers as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact in his rookie season, rushing for 1,235 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns, which earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. His most memorable moment came during that same season with the iconic "Immaculate Reception," a play that has become a defining moment in NFL history.
Over his impressive 12-year career with the Steelers, Harris amassed a staggering 14,234 yards from scrimmage and scored a total of 100 touchdowns. He holds the franchise records for career rushing yards (11,950) and rushing touchdowns (91), showcasing his prowess as a running back.
Harris's accolades extend beyond just his statistics. He was selected to nine Pro Bowls, received one First-Team All-Pro selection, and earned two Second-Team All-Pro honors. His contributions helped lead the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories, and he was named the MVP of Super Bowl IX. In recognition of his character and contributions off the field, Harris was awarded the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 1976.
In addition to his on-field success, Harris was honored as a member of the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. He also holds a place on the Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team and the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor. Harris's legacy continues to resonate with fans, especially after his passing at the age of 72 in 2022.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, the Steelers organization and their fans will undoubtedly remember Franco Harris as the greatest player to wear No. 32. His legacy is a testament to the impact he had on the franchise and the sport of football as a whole. With the season just around the corner, the Steelers look forward to building on their storied history while honoring the contributions of their past legends.
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