Home

NFL

NFL World Left in Tears as Terry Bradshaw Honors Legend Franco Harris in Emotional Tribute Live on National TV

Published 12/25/2022, 1:30 PM EST

Follow Us

The Steelers Nation mourns the loss of one of their legendary players. Franco Harris was 72 years old. Pittsburgh Steelers planned to retire the Number 32 jersey during the halftime of their matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on Christmas Eve. Everybody knew it was going to be an emotional night. And it was. Right before the kickoff of the matchup, Terry Bradshaw made an emotional tribute to his former teammate in the most heartfelt way. 

Exactly fifty years ago, Harris birthed the iconic Immaculate Reception. The play is regarded as one of the monumental events in the history of the league. To celebrate the great feat, Pittsburgh was also going to honor Harris for his contribution along with the retirement of his jersey. Bradshaw recited his own rendition of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Fans shed tears as Bradshaw honored his late friend, Franco Harris

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The recitation was all about the Immaculate Reception. The QB revealed that he had recorded the segment a few weeks ago. But when the Hall of Famer QB watched the tribute on NFL Network, his eyes became watery. It certainly was a heavy moment for all the fans and admirers of Harris.

The legendary quarterback’s words warmed the hearts of many people who were watching from their homes. Bradshaw’s tribute reminded people how impactful Franco Harris’ life was. And the sweet video came at the right time during holiday when one requires the support from their family and friends.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest NFL stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Read more: “I’m Not Crying. You’re Crying”: Fans’ Hearts Melt After Fallen NFL Legend Honored in Epic Fashion

When fans saw the adorable tribute, they expressed their love and also some shed tears.

Many found the tribute divine and it definitely was.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

HOF-er running back was drafted to the Steelers two seasons after Terry Bradshaw. They played twelve seasons together and made precious memories in black and gold. Combined, they made it to 12 Pro Bowls and won four Super Bowls. Therefore, there could never be a better person than the 74-year-old to eulogize him. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Harris and Bradshaw were longtime friends even after their retirements. Both of the athlete’s families had gone to dinner just two weeks before Harris passed away. 

Watch this story: Tom Brady Went to The Same High School As This Controversial MLB Hall of Famer Who Was Also A 14x All-Star

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Neha Joshi

695Articles

One take at a time

Neha Joshi is an NFL writer at Essentially Sports. She is currently pursuing her postgraduate degree in English Literature from R.D National College, Mumbai and has also previously worked as a Graduate Intern at Jacobs.
Show More>