Steelers' First-Round Rookie Derrick Harmon Finds Support From Star Players After Crushing Blow In Preseason Finale

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected one of the most promising defensive prospects from the 2025 draft class in the first round this past April. Many expect Derrick Harmon to make a big impact throughout his rookie season as he will look to follow in the footsteps of legendary defensive players like TJ Watt and Cam Heyward. Harmon was a star during his time at Oregon, and the rookie will look to pickup right where he left off once fully healthy again.

Harmon suffered a knee injury during the final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers last Thursday and was later diagnosed with an MCL sprain. Harmon was originally expected to possibly be put on IR to start the season, but he may only miss just one game. The injury is a brutal blow to the Steelers' defensive line regardless, and Harmon will now look to get fully healthy as fast as he possibly can.

Harmon spoke about the injury after the game, where the rookie went into detail about where he stands mentally following the brutal blow to his rookie campaign.

"Really just don't get too much in my head," Harmon stated. "Injuries are a part of this game."

Harmon then talked about how important keeping his head up and staying mentally focused is.

"At this level, it's part of what we do," Harmon explained. "So just trying to keep my hopes up and keep me mentally prepared and mentally focused."

Harmon's injury in the final preseason game of the year is nothing short of disappointing, but the hopes are still that he's able to return sooner rather than later. Many consider Harmon to be a strong candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year, and the former Oregon Ducks standout should be able to thrive in Pittsburgh's defensive scheme once he returns.

Harmon looked very promising throughout the entire preseason and flashed his potential on multiple different occasions. The rookie will benefit from playing alongside Watt and Heyward when he returns, as both veterans will serve as excellent mentors for the promising defensive lineman. 

Steelers' TJ Watt And Cam Heyward Reassured Derrick Harmon Following His Injury

Harmon was visibility shaken up and emotional following his injury on Thursday night. The rookie was seen being carted off the field as he later returned to the sideline in street clothes. The rookie's spirits seemed to have lifted once he returned, as he took a moment to tell the media what had happened between himself, Watt and Heyward once Harmon returned to the sideline. 

"I was still in that headspace, but once I got next to my teammates, like you said, they cheered me up and told me to get out of my head," Harmon claimed. "That's what they told me, so that's why I was laughing like that."

Harmon will play alongside two of the best defensive players in all of football throughout his rookie season and is expected to learn a lot from both veterans in Watt and Heyward. Harmon can still improve and continue developing over the next few weeks, despite not being on the field, as many feel as if the rookie will make a significant impact on the Steelers' defensive line once fully healthy.

Harmon finished the 2025 preseason with 4 total tackles and 1 sack. Depending on the severity of the knee injury, it's possible that Harmon could be back to action prior to Week 1 against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. However, there's no reason to rush the first-rounder back and the Steelers will seemingly continue to lean on Watt, Heyward, Keeanu Benton, and fifth-round rookie Yahya Black in the meantime.