There was a lot more on the table for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday evening than just a winning season or potential playoff hopes remaining in reach. The organization was taking the field for one of the most important figures in the franchise's history. Hall of Fame running back, Franco Harris passed away earlier in the week at the age of 72 about 50 years after the legendary Immaculate Reception. The four-time Super Bowl Champion had his number retired as the team defeated the Las Vegas Raiders, 13-10. It was more to everyone in the locker room than just continuing to play meaningful football in Week 17 , however.
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 23: Former Pittsburgh Steelers players Franco Harris #32 and Rocky Blier #20 wave "Terrible Towels" as they celebrate the Steelers 24-19 victory against the New York Jets during the 2011 AFC Championship game at Heinz Field on January 23, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Multiple guys in the locker room spoke after the game and were very clear on how they felt about what this win meant to themselves and the city of Pittsburgh. Head Coach Mike Tomlin was less stoic than usual discussing the incredible evening:
"We had a chance to be part of Steelers history tonight. We don’t take that lightly. We’re just so appreciative of the ground that’s been laid by those that have come before us."
Tomlin also implied that he and his team had a special opportunity to engrave themselves into an unforgettable night in Steelers history:
"There were a lot of things that happened tonight that were heavy. We just wanted to be a part of it. There’s some nights you get an opportunity to etch your small place in Steelers lore. I’m so happy our young guys had an [opportunity] to do that in some small way tonight."
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin addresses the fans at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA during the team's training camp in 2022. | Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Linebacker, Alex Highsmith, who came up with a big sack in the game, said that everyone within the locker room appreciates what Harris did for not just the organization, but for the city of Pittsburgh as well:
"It’s cool to play for an organization that’s had guys like that in the past. Everyone is thankful for what he did. Not just the player that he was, but the person, as well."
One of the stars of the game was longest-tenured player and defensive lineman, Cameron Heyward. He played like he was on the Super Bowl winning defenses in the 1970's and spoke afterward about the late Harris' impact:
"Decades and decades will go on, but we still care for a man that brought so much to us. We loved him. We will continue to love him and we appreciate all he’s done for us."
Rookie quarterback, Kenny Pickett is new to the Steelers, but not the city after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh. Saturday night was clearly a night that he will never forget based on what he had to say afterwards:
"After the game, obviously, incredibly special moment in the locker room. It's safe to say I'm going to keep this jersey," Pickett said on the podium with Harris' #32 on.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 04: Kenny Pickett #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers throws a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 04, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Cameron Sutton joined his defensive teammate in Heyward talking about the meaningful win. He ignored his game-clinching interception and focused more on how much of an honor it was to be on the field Saturday:
"Just being a part of the history, this legacy, this situation. This is bigger than us. This moment here is not just gonna stay here. It's gonna carry with this organization for the rest of time, so like I said, just being a part of that is special to me."
To cap it off, running back, Najee Harris, who had begun developing a relationship with Frano, was sincere and straight to the point following the emotional victory:
"We won this game for him tonight. It’s great for the organization. It means the world," Najee said.
What are your thoughts on the special win in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments below!
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