Why Did Franco Harris Leave The Steelers?

During the Steelers 1984 training sessions, the team released Harris after failing to negotiate the terms of his contract.

In September of that year, he signed with the Seattle Seahawks but was released from the team on October 31.

Harris was named Steelers Rookie of the Year by both The Sporting News and United Press International. In that season, he gained 1,055 yards on 188 carries, with a 5.6 yard per average. He also rushed for 10 touchdowns and caught four touchdown passes.

He was popular with Pittsburgh’s large Italian-American population: his fans, including “Brigadier General” Frank Sinatra, dubbed themselves “Franco’s Italian Army” and wore army helmets with his number on them.