The big news from Tuesday’s “special announcement.” The Steelers are going to retire Franco Harris’ #32 jersey.
Harris will become only the third Steeler in team history to have his number retired. Joe Greene (#75) and Ernie Stautner (#70) are the other two.
The jersey will be retired during the 50th anniversary celebration on December 24 when the Steelers play the Las Vegas Raiders.
"What can I say, but wow. I am blown away,” Harris said. “I'd like to thank Art and the Rooney family for this honor. Thank you, very, very much. I know this consideration was a tough one, because there are a number of players who could have been honored."
The Immaculate Reception is considered the most famous play in the history of the NFL. It happened on December 23, 1972 in a divisional game against the then Oakland Raiders at Three Rivers Stadium.
The team will also wear the classic block-numbered jerseys during that game along with a special patch commemorating the event.
Harris’ jersey will be retired during a special ceremony during half time.
"I share this honor with my teammates, my coaches, the folks in the front office and the locker room and equipment personnel,” added Harris.
In addition, NFL Films has announced that the Hall of Fame running back will be the focal point of an episode of the Emmy-nominated series "A Football Life" on NFL Network this fall.