Steelers Bolster Their Defensive Line Selecting Harmon In The First Round

At the start of the offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers prioritized upgrading their defensive line. They addressed this objective with their first-round draft selection, choosing standout defensive tackle Derrick Harmon from Oregon.

Despite notable quarterbacks such as Colorado's Shedeur Sanders and Ole Miss' Jaxson Dart being available, the Steelers opted for Harmon—a standout performer at the NFL Combine—whom they had invited for a pre-draft visit.

Harmon's addition strengthens the interior of the Steelers' defensive line, which already features All-Pro veteran Cameron Heyward, as well as Keeanu Benton, veteran Montravius Adams, Logan Lee, and Daniel Ekuale, who was signed by the team in March.

Although Harmon has primarily played as a three-technique defensive tackle, his versatility allows the team to deploy him in multiple positions along the line. His size and length make him a disruptive force in opposing backfields.

During his collegiate career, spanning both the University of Oregon and Michigan State, Harmon recorded 116 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and six pass deflections across 42 games.