Franco Harris, born in 1950, kicked off his professional football career in 1972 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a running back. His college days at Penn State University had already hinted at his potential, with a standout performance in the 1972 Orange Bowl earning him national recognition.

Harris’s fame skyrocketed in his rookie season itself, thanks to a play that would forever be etched in NFL history. In the 1972 playoffs against the Oakland Raiders, with just 22 seconds left in the game and the Steelers trailing, Harris caught a lateral pass from quarterback Frenchy Fuqua and evaded several Raider defenders, a play now known as the “Immaculate Reception.” This miraculous touchdown secured a 13-7 victory for the Steelers and launched Harris into the spotlight.

Franco Harris’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Franco Harris’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure takes into account his successful NFL career, various business ventures, and real estate investments.

Franco Harris’s Career

Franco Harris, a legendary NFL running back, played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Seattle Seahawks during his professional career. He was drafted by the Steelers in 1972 and played a crucial role in their four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s. Harris was known for his agility, vision, and powerful running style, earning him the nickname “The French Connection.” He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.

Franco Harris’s Other Ventures

After retiring from the NFL, Harris ventured into various business endeavors. He opened a sports bar called “Franco’s Italian Army” in Pittsburgh, which was a popular spot for Steelers fans. He also started a food distribution company, “Sports & Entertainment Enterprises,” which provided food services to stadiums and arenas. Additionally, Harris was involved in real estate investments, owning several properties in Pennsylvania and Florida.

Franco Harris’s Assets

Franco Harris’s assets include his real estate portfolio, which consists of several residential and commercial properties in Pennsylvania and Florida. He also owns a collection of sports memorabilia, including his four Super Bowl rings and his 1972 NFL Rookie of the Year award. His most valuable asset, however, is his stake in the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise, which he acquired in the late 1990s.

Franco Harris’s Annual Income

Franco Harris’s annual income during his peak NFL career was around $1 million. However, after retiring from the NFL, his annual income varied significantly depending on the success of his business ventures. In recent years, his annual income is estimated to be around $2 million, primarily from his real estate investments and his stake in the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Franco Harris

What was Franco Harris’ net worth?

Franco Harris’ net worth was estimated to be around $20 million at the time of his death.

How did Franco Harris make his money?

Franco Harris made his fortune primarily through his successful NFL career. He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for 12 seasons and was a key member of their four Super Bowl-winning teams in the 1970s. He also played for the Seattle Seahawks and the Detroit Lions before retiring in 1984.

What was Franco Harris’ salary during his NFL career?

Franco Harris’ salary varied throughout his career. In his prime, he was one of the highest-paid players in the NFL. In 1978, for example, he earned $1 million, which is equivalent to around $4.5 million in today’s dollars.

What was Franco Harris’ role in the Immaculate Reception?

The Immaculate Reception was a play during the 1972 NFL playoffs in which Franco Harris caught a deflected pass and ran it for a touchdown, securing the Steelers’ victory over the Oakland Raiders. It is considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history.

What happened to Franco Harris’ jersey number after his retirement?

After Franco Harris’ retirement, the Pittsburgh Steelers retired his jersey number 32. It is now one of only four jersey numbers retired by the Steelers.

What was Franco Harris’ role in the Steelers’ four Super Bowl wins?

Franco Harris played a crucial role in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ four Super Bowl wins in the 1970s. He was a key member of the team’s offense and was named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl IX.

What was Franco Harris’ height and weight?

Franco Harris was 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 230 pounds during his playing career.

What was Franco Harris’ college career like?

Franco Harris played college football at the University of Pennsylvania. He was a two-time All-Ivy League selection and finished his college career with 2,262 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns.

What happened to Franco Harris after his NFL career?

After retiring from the NFL, Franco Harris became a businessman and an entrepreneur. He owned several restaurants and was involved in various business ventures. He also remained active in the community and was involved in several charitable organizations.

How did Franco Harris die?

Franco Harris died on December 20, 2017, at the age of 70. He had been battling cancer and died of complications from the disease.