Derrick Harmon injury update: Mike Tomlin shares update on Steelers rookie after hurting knee

Everyone involved with the Pittsburgh Steelers held their breath after rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon went down on Thursday. Harmon left the preseason finale against Carolina and it was later reported to be a knee injury. Not what you want to hear in any scenario.

After the game, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin revealed Harmon sprained his knee. No timetable was provided, saying there is still an evaluation ongoing.

“Steelers HC Mike Tomlin told reporters that first-round pick Derrick Harmon sprained his knee, and the injury still is being evaluated,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter said via X.

Harmon left the game due to the injury and eventually made his way back to the locker room. He was then spotted back on the sideline during the fourth quarter, smiling with some teammates while sitting down.

Pittsburgh put some quality draft capital into Harmon, selecting him with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The hope is he can become a quality player in the middle of the defensive line, continuing a great tradition within the Steelers organization.

This comes after a quality career in the collegiate ranks. Most recently, with the Oregon Ducks and helping them win the Big Ten in part due to a perfect 12-0 regular season. Before then, Harmon played for the Michigan State Spartans before entering the NCAA transfer portal. The move ultimately paid off, recording 45 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, and five sacks — all of which were career highs.

Producing those kinds of numbers in the NFL would be more than a stellar rookie year. Unfortunately, there is now an injury for him to deal with. Only being classified as a sprain might be a silver lining in the whole situation, though. More information will possibly be released in the coming days once further tests are completed.

A couple of weeks separate now and the beginning of the regular season. Sept. 7 will be the opener against the New York Jets for a game at the Meadowlands. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers likely goes up against his old team, possibly looking for a little bit of revenge. Starting a campaign where wins are expected 1-0 is more important than anything.

Harmon will have a ton of eyes on him between now and then. Losing him for any period of time would be a massive blow. A critical stretch is ahead of the rookie first-round defensive tackle.