Former Steelers wide receiver Barry Pearson dies at 76
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 12:54 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Barry Pearson, a former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver known for his role in the Immaculate Reception, has died at age 76. He passed away on August 16, as noted in his obituary. Pearson joined the Steelers shortly before graduating from Northwestern in 1972 and made his mark during the legendary play, which occurred during a 1972 playoff game against the Oakland Raiders. With seconds left in the game, quarterback Terry Bradshaw's pass was deflected, and Franco Harris caught it to score a game-winning touchdown. Pearson's contribution in that moment has remained significant in NFL history.
- •Barry Pearson died on August 16, 2026, at age 76.
- •He played in the 1972 playoffs against the Oakland Raiders.
- •Pearson was signed by the Steelers as a free agent in 1972.
- •He executed the play that led to Franco Harris's game-winning touchdown.
- •The play is known as the Immaculate Reception.
- 12:54 AMYahoo Sports — Former Steelers wide receiver, who had a role in the Immaculate Reception, dies at 76
"Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Barry Pearson, who was a part of the legendary Immaculate Reception play, has died. He was 76. Pearson passed away on Aug. 16, according to his obituary.
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