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Mike Tomlin Makes Final Decision on 1st-Round Pick Before Steelers' NFL Season Opener

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 1:21 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made the playoffs four out of the last five seasons. But each run ended immediately in the Wild Card round. Head coach Mike Tomlin and company are looking to get the Steelers over the hump in 2025.

However, at least to start the year, they'll have to do so without first-round pick Derrick Harmon. The defensive tackle was carted off of Pittsburgh's Week 3 preseason matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Harmon was ultimately diagnosed with a MCL sprain and given a four-to-six week timetable.

Despite that prognosis, the Steelers decided against putting Harmon on the injured reserve list, believing he may not miss much time, via Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. One thing for certain though is that the first-round pick won't be active in Week 1. Tomlin confirmed on Tuesday that Harmon is officially out, via Nick Farabaugh of PennLive.

"Mike Tomlin ruled out rookie DT Derrick Harmon," Farabaugh wrote.

Mike Tomlin ruled out rookie DT Derrick Harmon.

He says Nick Herbig is questionable but had a 'really good day' yesterday. They'll see how he responds throughout the week.

No one else is on the injury report.
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) September 2, 2025

Steelers Waiting on Derrick Harmon Impact

While it may not come in Week 1 against the New York Jets, the Steelers are expecting Harmon to make an impact sooner rather than later. Especially as fellow defensive lineman Cam Heyward potentially misses regular season time due to his contract issues. Pittsburgh is relying on the impact Harmon brings to the gridiron.

Over his four years at the collegiate level, Harmon put up 116 tackles, 18 for a loss and 8.5 sacks. But he really broke onto the scene as a senior with Oregon. Harmon set new career-highs across the board with 45 tackles, 11 for a loss and five sacks. The defensive tackle was named Second-team All-Big Ten for his efforts.

After being selected No. 21 overall, Harmon will now join a Steelers defense that ranked 12th in 2024, allowing 326.7 yards per game. Pittsburgh's strength was their run defense, ranking sixth by allowing 98.7 YPG. Adding Harmon to the mix should only make things harder on any opposing running back.

But the Jets won't have to face that test in Week 1. The Steelers remain optimistic about Harmon's return. Still, they won't rush their first-round rookie back if he isn't ready.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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