Who Is Franco Harris? Age, Biography, and Wiki
As of 2025, if Franco Harris were still alive, he would be 75 years old. A Pittsburgh Steelers legend, Harris was born in Fort Dix, New Jersey, and he quickly became a household name after being drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft. He played for the Steelers from 1972 to 1983 and had a short stint with the Seattle Seahawks in 1984. Harris was renowned for his contributions to the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s, solidifying his status as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 7, 1950 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Fort Dix, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | Jersey |
| Date of death | 20 December, 2022 |
| Died Place | Sewickley, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
Popularity
Franco Harris's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Franco Harris stood tall at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) and weighed approximately 230 pounds (104 kg) during his playing career. His robust physique and athletic abilities allowed him to excel on the field, making him a formidable opponent for defenses across the league.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Franco Harris was married to Dana Dokmanovich, and the couple shared a beautiful family life together. They had one son, Franco "Dok" Harris, who has followed in his father's footsteps and is involved with various charitable endeavors. With regards to his dating status, Harris was known for being deeply devoted to his family, and there are no public records indicating any romantic relationships outside of his marriage.
His father, Cad Harris, a Black soldier, served in World War II and was stationed in Italy during the war. His mother, Gina Parenti Harris, was a native Italian and became a "war bride", who moved with her husband when he returned to the United States after the end of the war.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2022, Franco Harris had an estimated net worth of $3 million. His wealth stemmed not only from his NFL career but also from numerous endorsements, appearances, and business ventures. Harris was an intelligent investor, and he often spoke about the importance of financial literacy for athletes.
With the retirement of O. J. Simpson after the 1979 season, Harris became the career rushing leader among active players. Following the 1983 season, Harris and Walter Payton were both closing in on Jim Brown's NFL rushing record, and Harris asked the Rooney family for a pay raise.
Believing that Harris was on the downside of his career, they refused and Harris threatened to hold out. The Steelers released him during training camp in 1984 and he then signed with the Seattle Seahawks during the 1984 season. He played just eight games with the team, gaining only 170 yards before retiring (192 yards short of Jim Brown's record).
Career, Business, and Investments
Franco Harris's NFL career spanned over a decade, during which he became a five-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. After retiring from professional football, Harris ventured into various businesses, including running a successful food company that specialized in healthy food options. He also engaged in philanthropic efforts and supported numerous causes that focused on education and health.
Harris was a three-sport athlete (football, basketball, and baseball) at Rancocas Valley Regional High School in Mount Holly Township, New Jersey. He graduated in 1968. He then attended Penn State University, where he played on the Nittany Lions football team.
Although he was primarily a blocker for the running back during his first year at Penn State, he amassed a career total of 2,002 yards rushing with 24 touchdowns and averaged over 5 yards per carry, while also catching 28 passes for 352 yards and another touchdown. He led the team in scoring in 1970.
Social Network
Harris was active on several social media platforms, where he connected with fans and shared insights about his life after football. His presence on platforms like Twitter and Instagram helped him maintain his connection with the public and promote various charitable endeavors.
Harris died in his sleep at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on December 20, 2022, at age 72, three days before the 50th anniversary of the "Immaculate Reception".
Harris's death was considered sudden, as he had been active on social media just days before his death and had spoken to visitors at the Heinz History Center the day before his death including a live interview with KDKA-TV from the Heinz History Center.
He was set to attend a ceremony at halftime during a Steelers game against the Las Vegas Raiders on December 24, 2022, to retire his jersey number.
Hours before his death, Harris recorded an interview with Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward for his podcast in what would be his last public interview, during which he ironically commented about how he was "feeling good" and happy to have made it to the 50th anniversary of the "Immaculate Reception".
His cause of death was later ruled as natural causes.
Education
Franco Harris attended Penn State University, where he played college football before being drafted into the NFL. His time at Penn State was instrumental in shaping his football skills and character, as he was coached by the legendary Joe Paterno.
Franco Dok Harris (March 7, 1950 – December 20, 2022) was an American professional football player who was a fullback for 13 seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played college football for the Penn State Nittany Lions and was selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 1972 NFL draft.
Harris spent his first 12 seasons with Pittsburgh, earning nine Pro Bowl selections, and was a member of the Seattle Seahawks in his last.
