Steelers President Art Rooney Announces Retirement Of Legend Franco Harris' #32 Jersey

The Pittsburgh Steelers revealed on Monday that President Art Rooney II would make a "special announcement" on Tuesday afternoon. Rooney, who isn't often in front of the cameras, was joined at the podium by Franco Harris and the reasoning for the announcement was indeed special. The President happily said that the Steelers will retire Harris' #32 jersey number.

Harris joins just "Mean" Joe Green and Ernie Stautner as the organization's only retired numbers. This was expected by some as the team will play the Las Vegas Raiders on the same weekend that is the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception. Although his jersey will officially be retired, a Steelers player has not worn #32 since he left the franchise in 1983.

Rooney was very complimentary of the Hall of Fame running back.

"Before Franco got here, we didn't win much, since he got here, we don't lose.' I think that sums it up pretty good. Franco's impact on the franchise would be hard to overstate. That is why I think it is fitting and appropriate that we recognize Franco's remarkable career by retiring his Number 32 at our game on December 24."

"This is the 50th anniversary of one of the most memorable plays in NFL history; one that changed the course of our success with his 'Immaculate Reception' in 1972," Rooney II said.

Harris played 12 seasons in Pittsburgh and was elected to the Pro Bowl nine times. He finished 12,120 total rushing yards and 100 total touchdowns in his NFL career and won four Super Bowls with the organization. The Steelers will wear a special commemorative patch for their home game against the Raiders when Harris' number is retired on Christmas Eve.

The week 16 game is going to be that much more special now due to the celebration of one of the best players in franchise history. Are you happy the Steelers are officially retiring Harris' number? Let us know in the comments below!

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