Franco Harris (March 7, 1950 – December 20, 2022) was a standout NFL running back, spending 13 seasons primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft, Harris played 12 seasons with Pittsburgh, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and winning four Super Bowls. He was named MVP of Super Bowl IX and is famous for the “Immaculate Reception,” a legendary play that secured the Steelers’ first playoff win. Harris was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
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Franco Harris Net Worth
At the time of his death, Franco Harris had a net worth of $3 million. In September 1994, he purchased a home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, in the Pittsburgh suburbs for $425,000.
He lived in this residence for the remainder of his life. The home is now valued at approximately $800,000.
Early life
Franco Harris was born in Fort Dix, New Jersey, to Cad Harris, a Black WWII soldier stationed in Italy, and Gina Parenti Harris, an Italian war bride. He graduated from Rancocas Valley Regional High School in 1968 and then attended Penn State University.
Initially a blocker, Harris later became a standout running back, amassing 2,002 rushing yards, 24 touchdowns, and catching 28 passes for 352 yards over his college career. His notable stats include 643 yards and 10 touchdowns in 1969, 675 yards and 8 touchdowns in 1970, and 684 yards and 6 touchdowns in 1971.
Career
Selected 13th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1972 NFL Draft, Franco Harris was named NFL Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year after gaining 1,055 yards and 10 touchdowns in his debut season. His rookie year featured the iconic “Immaculate Reception,” leading the Steelers to their first playoff win.
Harris was a nine-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion, earning Super Bowl IX MVP honors with 158 rushing yards and a touchdown. After a brief stint with the Seattle Seahawks in 1984, he retired with 12,120 career rushing yards and 91 touchdowns.
Personal life
Franco Harris was married to Dana Dokmanovich, and they had a son, Franco “Dok” Harris, who ran for Pittsburgh mayor in 2009, finishing second with 25% of the vote. His brother, Pete Harris, played football at Penn State and died of a heart attack in 2006 at age 49.
Harris served on Penn State’s Center for Food Innovation advisory board and was named a Conti Professor by the School of Hospitality Management in 2009. He also supported Penn Staters for Responsible Stewardship to reform the university’s board of trustees.
What happened to Franko Harris?
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, Franco Harris passed away in 2022, just two days before the 50th anniversary of the iconic play that made him famous.
Conclusion
Franco Harris’s legacy extends beyond just his football prowess. His journey from the football field to the financial realm serves as an inspiration to many. His story is a testament to the fact that with passion, dedication, and hard work, one can achieve greatness in multiple avenues of life.
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FAQs about Franco Harris’ Net Worth
- How much was Franco Harris worth at the time of his death?
Franco Harris had a net worth of $3 million. - Did Franco Harris own any businesses?
Yes, he owned Super Bakery Inc. and Parks Sausage Company. - Which team is Franco Harris most associated with?
Franco Harris is most closely associated with the Pittsburgh Steelers. - Did Franco Harris ever serve in the military?
No, while he had aspirations to join the Army, he pursued a football career after receiving a scholarship from Penn State University. - How many Super Bowl wins did Franco Harris have?
Franco Harris won four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
