Legend James Harrison, a former American football linebacker. He played college football at Kent State and was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2002. Harrison played for the Steelers for 14 seasons, during which he won two Super Bowls (XL and XLIII). In 2008, he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, the only undrafted player to receive the honor. He briefly retired in 2014 but returned to the Steelers after a short time. Harrison retired from the NFL in 2018 after 15 seasons. He is the Steelers' all-time leader in sacks with 80.5.

Legendary Linebacker James Harrison: A Relentless Force in NFL History

James Harrison, a name etched into the annals of football history, is widely celebrated as one of the most dominant and relentless defensive players the NFL has ever seen. Known for his ferocity on the field and his unlikely rise to stardom, Harrison’s legacy is one of perseverance, power, and pure grit.

Born on May 4, 1978, in Akron, Ohio, Harrison played college football at Kent State University, where he showcased flashes of the greatness that would come to define his professional career. Despite his talent and tenacity, Harrison went undrafted in the 2002 NFL Draft, a slight that would only fuel his drive. He was eventually signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent — a move that would mark the beginning of an extraordinary NFL journey.

Initially, Harrison’s path was anything but smooth. He was cut multiple times and even spent time with NFL Europe before finally securing a spot on the Steelers’ roster. Once given a consistent opportunity, he quickly established himself as a key contributor to Pittsburgh’s famously tough defense.

Harrison played 14 seasons with the Steelers, becoming a central figure in the team’s identity. His efforts helped lead the franchise to two Super Bowl titles: Super Bowl XL in 2006 and Super Bowl XLIII in 2009. His performance in Super Bowl XLIII included one of the most iconic plays in NFL history — a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals, the longest play in Super Bowl history at the time.

In 2008, Harrison reached the pinnacle of his career when he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He became the first — and to date, the only — undrafted player to receive the prestigious award. That season, he recorded 101 total tackles, 16 sacks, seven forced fumbles, and an interception, dominating opponents with a mix of brute strength and high football IQ.

Harrison briefly retired in 2014, but his passion for the game and commitment to the Steelers brought him back to the field just weeks later. He would go on to provide veteran leadership and maintain his high level of play, continuing to be a vital part of the Steelers’ defense until his final departure from the team.

After a brief stint with the New England Patriots in 2017, Harrison officially announced his retirement from professional football in 2018, concluding a 15-season career marked by consistency, toughness, and excellence.

By the time he hung up his cleats, Harrison had become the Pittsburgh Steelers’ all-time leader in sacks with 80.5 — a remarkable achievement that cements his status as one of the greatest defensive players in franchise history. His legacy extends beyond the stat sheet; he is a symbol of perseverance for undrafted players and a testament to the idea that determination and hard work can overcome any odds.

James Harrison’s career is a story of defiance against expectations, a blueprint for success forged through relentless effort, and an enduring chapter in the history of the NFL. For Steelers fans and football enthusiasts alike, he remains a legend — one whose impact on the game will not be forgotten.