Barry Pearson, Key Figure in ‘Immaculate Reception’, Dies at 76
Former NFL wide receiver Barry Pearson, known for his role in the "Immaculate Reception" play, has died at the age of 76. He passed away on August 16th. Pearson played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Kansas City Chiefs during…
Portland, OR, August 23, 2026 —
Barry Pearson, a former NFL wide receiver whose career included a significant role in one of professional football’s most iconic plays, has died. He was 76 years old.
Pearson passed away on August 16th. His career in the National Football League spanned time with both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Kansas City Chiefs.
While Pearson played for multiple seasons, he is perhaps most widely remembered for his involvement in the controversial “Immaculate Reception” play during a 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff game. In that game, Pearson was a receiver for the Steelers, catching a pass from Terry Bradshaw that deflected off another player and was ultimately ruled a touchdown, securing a victory for Pittsburgh over the Oakland Raiders.
Pearson’s tenure with the Steelers was part of a successful era for the franchise. Following his time in Pittsburgh, he also played for the Kansas City Chiefs before retiring from the sport.
The details surrounding Pearson’s passing have been confirmed, marking the end of an era for those who followed his career and the Steelers’ history.
Story summarized from the original created by Debra Worley on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
