Out of all of the many Hall of Famers and legends who have played for the Steelers, Franco Harris and Lynn Swann are two of the most important. Both Harris and Swann were part of each of Pittsburgh’s 4 Super Bowl titles during the “Steel Curtain” era of the 1970’s. But being Steelers legends with 4 Super Bowl rings is not all Harris and Swann share in common. They also share a birthday.
Harris, now 71, and Swann, who turned 69, today – March, 7, 2021. The 71-year-old running back spent 12 of his 13 years in the NFL with the Steelers after a memorable college career at Penn State. He totaled 12,120 yards on the ground and 2,287 as a receiver, 100 total touchdowns and an average of 4.1 yards per carry. Swann, who like Harris was a first round pick of the Steelers, played his entire career with the Steelers. He was drafted by Pittsburgh with the 21st overall pick of the 1974 NFL Draft out of USC. He accumulated 336 catches, 5,462 yards and 51 touchdowns in the NFL.
While their statistics may not stack well compared to others at their positions from future generations, they were both part of memorable moments that keep their legacies immaculate in the eyes of Steelers fans. Harris’ immaculate reception is often said to be what started the postseason success that eventually led to the 70’s dynasty while Swann owns one of the most iconic catches in Super Bowl history.
But who is the greater Steelers legend?
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