Steelers defense in rethink mode after losing first-round pick ahead of 2025 NFL season
The Pittsburgh rookie suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament during the game against the Carolina Panthers.
Derrick Harmon, selected in the first round of the draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers (21st overall), is expected to be out for about a month after suffering a medial collateral ligament sprain in the preseason game against the Carolina Panthers.
EZ of Derrick Harmon injury zoomed and slowed #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/ClkKVzDWUB
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) August 22, 2025
Who will replace Derrick Harmon?
Because of the injury, the defensive tackle will begin the season on the injured list. Harmon was carted off the field after twisting his knee, but although he did not return to the game, he later reappeared on the sideline in good spirits.
The rookie was projected to start from the opening week, meaning head coach Mike Tomlin will need to make adjustments. For now, the Steelers could turn to Isaiahh Loudermilk, Daniel Ekuale or Yahya Black to fill Harmon’s spot on the defensive line.
#Steelers first-round DT Derrick Harmon, who was ruled out with a knee injury last night, was diagnosed with an MCL sprain, sources say. He’s expected to be out about a month, which makes him a candidate to begin the year on IR.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 22, 2025
But could have been worse. pic.twitter.com/JQ48XGeewq
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