The Pittsburgh Steelers held a ceremony to unveil Franco Harris’ jersey display prior to Saturday’s preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.
Harris, a Hall of Fame running back who spent 12 seasons in Pittsburgh, passed away a day before the Steelers officially retired his jersey at halftime of the team’s victory over the Las Vegas Raiders this past Christmas Eve. Harris’ wife, Dana, and son, Dok, were present at Saturday’s ceremony and also served as honorary captains.
Scores of fans arrived early to attend the ceremony honoring Harris, who last winter became the third former player to have his number retired by the franchise.
Several of Harris’ former teammates, including Hall of Fame cornerback Mel Blount and running back Rocky Bleier, also took part in the ceremony.
“Number 32 is more than just a number, it’s a memory,” said Bleier, who shared a backfield with Harris for 10 seasons.
The Steelers recently added an exhibit inside their Hall of Honor honoring the three Steelers who have had their jerseys retired: Harris, former teammate Joe Greene and Ernie Stautner, a Hall of Fame defensive lineman who played for the team from 1950-63.
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