The Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with the 21st pick in the first round on Thursday night. This decision not only enhances the Steelers' defensive line but also reflects the team's strategic focus on bolstering their defense while passing on available quarterbacks, including Shedeur Sanders.
At 6-foot-4 and weighing 317 pounds, Harmon brings a formidable presence to the Steelers' roster. His journey to this moment has been anything but ordinary. Prior to the 2024 season, Harmon transferred from Michigan State to Oregon, where he truly flourished. The move allowed him to showcase his skills among a more talented roster, leading to a standout season that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
During his time at Oregon, Harmon played in all 14 games, starting each one and recording impressive stats: 45 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks. He also forced two fumbles and recovered two, demonstrating his ability to impact the game on multiple fronts. His performance earned him a second-team All-American designation from the Associated Press, a testament to his skill and hard work.
Harmon’s versatility was evident in his snap distribution, as Pro Football Focus logged him for 28 snaps as a nose tackle, 353 in the three-technique position, and 209 either over or outside a tackle. His 55 quarterback pressures led all FBS interior linemen, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses effectively. Analysts have praised his arm length of 34 3/8 inches and wingspan of 83 ¾ inches, which he uses to overpower blockers in both the run and pass game.
Field Yates of ESPN highlighted Harmon’s relentless motor, stating, "Harmon was at Oregon for only one season, but he made a significant mark in his time as a Duck with more pressures than any other defensive tackle in the FBS. He can rock pass protectors backward to collapse the pocket and stuff runners with effortless strength." This relentless work ethic is something Harmon attributes to his mother, Tiffany Saine, who has faced severe health challenges throughout his life.
After being drafted, Harmon described the experience as "bittersweet," noting that his mother is currently on life support. He expressed his desire to share the news of his selection with her, saying, "I’m gonna head straight to the hospital and tell her her son got drafted." This emotional backdrop adds depth to Harmon’s story, showcasing the resilience that has fueled his journey to the NFL.
Harmon’s mother suffered a stroke during his freshman year at Michigan State, which led to her hospitalization and paralysis on her left side. Despite these challenges, she remained a constant source of support, attending games and encouraging Harmon throughout his career. Reflecting on her influence, Harmon stated, "Just her resilience and her hard work really pushed me to keep going, no matter the obstacles I faced."
As Harmon joins the Steelers, he will be stepping into a defensive front that includes notable players like Cam Heyward, Alex Highsmith, and T.J. Watt. His ability to play various positions along the defensive line will provide valuable flexibility for the Steelers as they look to enhance their defensive strategies in the upcoming season.
General manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin’s choice to select Harmon over a quarterback indicates their confidence in his potential to become an immediate contributor. Harmon’s scouting reports reflect this belief, with NFL.com's Lance Zierlein stating, "Harmon is wide, long, and naturally powerful at the point of attack. He can create traffic jams inside as a two-gapper or stunt and power his way into the backfield."
Pro Football Network's Ian Cummings also noted Harmon’s dual-threat capability, saying, "There’s something to be said about a DT who’s reliable in both phases of the game. Whether you need a pass-rushing catalyst or a stout run defender with two-gapping ability, Oregon’s Derrick Harmon has what you need." This versatility will be crucial for the Steelers as they navigate the challenges of the NFL season.
While the Steelers currently lack a second-round pick after trading for wide receiver DK Metcalf earlier this offseason, their decision to invest in Harmon reflects a long-term vision for building a competitive team. With questions surrounding their quarterback situation, the Steelers may still pursue options such as Aaron Rodgers or Kirk Cousins to fill that gap.
As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, Harmon’s selection marks a pivotal moment for both him and the Steelers. The combination of his on-field talent and personal resilience paints a promising picture for his future in the league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Harmon transitions to the NFL and contributes to a Steelers defense that is looking to reclaim its dominance.
In conclusion, Derrick Harmon’s journey to the Pittsburgh Steelers is a story of perseverance, talent, and the unwavering support of family. As he embarks on this new chapter, the Steelers are banking on his skills to make an immediate impact on their defensive line, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
