Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Barry Pearson, who played a small but fascinating role in one of the most famous moments in NFL history, has died. He was 76.
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Pearson died peacefully on Aug. 16 surrounded by family and close friends, according to his obituary.
The former Northwestern standout spent two seasons with Pittsburgh, and his NFL debut came during the Steelers' legendary 1972 playoff victory over the Oakland Raiders.
In fact, Pearson's first NFL play was the "Immaculate Reception."
Pearson didn't make the catch that became one of football's defining moments. That, of course, belonged to Franco Harris. But Pearson was the player who carried the play call from the sideline into the huddle.
According to his obituary, Steelers coach Chuck Noll later told Pearson the play had originally been designed for him because of his reliable hands.
Instead, Terry Bradshaw's fourth-down pass intended for John "Frenchy" Fuqua was deflected, and Harris famously grabbed the ball just before it hit the ground and raced for the winning touchdown.
Pearson went on to produce another memorable Steelers moment in 1973, catching a 46-yard game-winning touchdown against Washington on Monday Night Football.
He later spent three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, leading the team with 608 receiving yards in 1975 while catching passes from Hall of Fame quarterback Len Dawson.
A serious knee injury eventually ended Pearson's playing career. He later coached wide receivers at Oklahoma State before embarking on a successful career in the food-service industry.
Pearson is survived by Linda, his wife of 54 years, two daughters and three grandchildren.
His family said a private burial will be followed by a celebration of his life at a later date.
Rest in peace to a man who had a front-row seat for NFL history.
