With the 21st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have chosen Derrick Harmon, a defensive lineman from Oregon. Harmon, aged 21, stands at 6-foot-4 and a half inches and weighs 313 pounds, matching the prototype the Steelers favor for a defensive end. His athletic accolades include over 34-inch arms, an 83-inch wingspan, and a 4.95-second 40-yard dash recorded in pre-draft workouts.
Harmon transferred to Oregon from Michigan State in 2024, where he amassed 45 tackles, including 10.5 for a loss, 5 sacks, 4 pass breakups, and two forced fumbles. His ability to counter both running and passing threats is expected to fill the void left by the departure of defensive end Larry Ogunjobi, who was released by the Steelers in the offseason.
Harmon may also serve as a future replacement for the All-Pro defensive tackle Cam Heyward, who is turning 36 in May. An unnamed NFL executive likened Harmon to a younger, larger version of Heyward, saying, “He plays like a Raven or a Steeler.”
Known for his agility and strength, Harmon excels in maneuvers such as swim and rip moves, allowing him to penetrate offensive lines effectively. His sturdy build enables him to withstand double teams during running plays. Harmon appeared in 38 consecutive games in college, accruing 116 tackles, 18 for a loss, and 8.5 sacks.
Harmon is projected to make an immediate impact on the Steelers’ 3-4 defense, contributing as both a defensive end and an interior pass rusher in nickel and dime packages. In 2024, he led all FBS defensive linemen with 55 pressures.
His presence allows the Steelers to either maintain Keeanu Benton at nose tackle or explore other nose tackle options, utilizing Harmon flexibly in various defensive roles alongside Heyward and Benton.
Although Heyward was a first-team All-Pro in 2024, his participation dropped to 70 percent of defensive snaps. His presence significantly reduced opponents’ rushing yards per carry, underscoring the strategic importance of bolstering the defensive line with players like Harmon.
