Franco Harris, one of the most legendary names in NFL history, built an impressive legacy both on and off the field. His financial success can be traced back to his stellar NFL career, where he made crucial contributions to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
With four Super Bowl titles and numerous awards under his belt, Harris not only left his mark on the sport but also secured a solid financial standing.
At Andomoney, we take a deep dive into Franco Harris net worth, examining the pivotal moments in his career that played a significant role in shaping his wealth.
Let’s explore the achievements that made Harris an NFL icon and contributed to his financial legacy.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Franco Harris |
| Popular Name | Franco Harris |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | March 7, 1950 |
| Age | 72 (December 20, 2022) |
| Parents | Cad Harris, Gina Parenti Harris |
| Siblings | Pete Harris |
| Birthplace | Fort Dix, New Jersey |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American, Italian |
| Education | Penn State University |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Dana Dokmanovich |
| Children | Franco “Dok” Harris |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
| Source of Wealth | NFL, Business Ventures |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 meters) |
What is the Net Worth Of Franco Harris in 2024?
In 2024, Franco Harris net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. His impressive wealth is attributed to his incredible NFL career and business ventures.
Despite his passing, his legacy remains strong, particularly through his impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers and the “Immaculate Reception”.
When compared to other notable figures in the NFL, Harris’s net worth stands modestly but remains significant given his contributions to football history.
Notable people related to Harris include:
- Terry Bradshaw
- Jim Brown
- Walter Payton
- Rocky Bleier
- Jerome Bettis
- O.J. Simpson
- Joe Greene
- Pete Harris
- Lydell Mitchell
- Cameron Heyward
For a more in-depth look at other top players, check out the top NFL earners here.
Franco Harris Salary and Finance Overview
How His NFL Career Contributed to His Wealth
Franco Harris’s wealth was largely shaped by his NFL career, starting with his 1972 selection in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
His contract in his rookie season included performance bonuses, which were quite common at the time, rewarding athletes based on their accomplishments on the field.
His stellar performance, including the famous “Immaculate Reception,” helped boost his value in the league.
Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, Harris was consistently one of the highest-paid players due to his role in securing four Super Bowl titles for the Steelers.
His earnings were further bolstered by lucrative endorsement deals and his association with the legendary “Franco’s Italian Army,” a group of fans who supported him, highlighting his marketable persona.
Awards and Accolades That Boosted His Financial Standing
Throughout his NFL career, Harris earned several awards that had a direct impact on his earnings. In 1972, Harris was named NFL Rookie of the Year, a title that came with a significant financial bonus.
His Super Bowl MVP award from Super Bowl IX also contributed to his earning potential. With nine Pro Bowl selections, he gained recognition as a top performer, which translated into better contracts and endorsement opportunities.
Being named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team and later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990 further solidified his reputation, ensuring his post-career endorsements and public appearances remained valuable sources of income.
Key Contributions to His Team’s Success and Financial Value
Harris was a key figure in the Steelers’ success, and his role alongside teammate Rocky Bleier in creating a dominant running back duo increased his importance to the team. His ability to consistently rush for over 1,000 yards in eight seasons broke records set by Jim Brown. This level of performance boosted his market value and contributed to Pittsburgh’s success during their four Super Bowl victories.
Harris’s ability to perform at a high level for such an extended period allowed him to negotiate better salary contracts as his career progressed.
Post-NFL Ventures That Added to His Wealth
After retiring from football, Franco Harris expanded his financial portfolio through various business ventures.
In 1990, he co-founded Super Bakery, later renamed RSuper Foods, which focused on providing nutritious food for schoolchildren. This venture became a significant part of his post-NFL income.
Harris was also involved in rescuing the Parks Sausage Company, which was the first African-American–owned business to go public in the U.S.
Harris maintained his involvement in sports by becoming a co-owner of the Pittsburgh Passion, a women’s football team, which provided another source of income.
His ability to leverage his fame and success from the NFL into successful business ventures is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and continued financial success long after his football career ended.
The Impact of His Legacy and Retirement on Financial Success
Even after retirement, Harris’s legacy continued to generate income.
The “Immaculate Reception”, regarded as one of the greatest plays in NFL history, kept Harris relevant in sports media and ensured continued demand for his public appearances.
His appearances in NFL-related events, commercials, and celebrations of past victories, such as the Steelers’ anniversaries, helped maintain his presence in the public eye and added to his financial standing.
Furthermore, his real estate investments, particularly his long-term home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, added value to his financial portfolio.
FAQs About Franco Harris
What role did Harris play in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Super Bowl victories?
He was a key player, contributing significantly as a running back and securing four Super Bowl titles.
What made the “Immaculate Reception” so important to his career?
The “Immaculate Reception” was a pivotal moment that brought him national fame and boosted his marketability.
Was Franco Harris involved in business ventures after his NFL career?
Yes, he co-founded Super Bakery and was involved in other business ventures like Parks Sausage Company.
How long did Franco Harris play in the NFL?
He played for 13 seasons, spending 12 with the Pittsburgh Steelers and 1 with the Seattle Seahawks.
Did Harris have any siblings who played football?
Yes, his brother Pete Harris also played football for Penn State.
Was Franco Harris ever inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
Yes, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
What position did Franco Harris play in the NFL?
He played as a running back throughout his NFL career.
What were some of Harris’s most notable awards?
His awards include NFL Rookie of the Year, Super Bowl MVP, and Pro Bowl selections.
Did Harris receive any accolades after retirement?
Yes, he continued to be recognized through appearances in NFL anniversary events and by maintaining his presence in sports media.
How did his business ventures contribute to his wealth post-retirement?
His ventures, particularly in nutrition-focused businesses, contributed significantly to his post-NFL financial success.
Conclusion
Franco Harris’s legacy in the NFL and his ventures beyond football have cemented his place in history.
To dive deeper into his financial success and other related content, visit andomoney.com and feel free to leave a comment or share the article.
