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Derrick Harmon injury update: Steelers reveal DT's status on Thursday practice report

Brian Jones Profile Picby: Brian Jones09/18/25brianjones_93
NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Pittsburgh Steelers
Aug 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) is introduced for a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers released their practice report for Thursday, and defensive tackle Derrick Harmon seems to be getting closer to making his NFL debut. It was revealed that Harmon, who has a knee injury, was limited in practice on Thursday. This was the second straight day Harmon was a limited participant in practice.

Derrick Harmon has yet to play this season, missing the first two games after suffering a knee injury against the Carolina Panthers in the preseason finale. While speaking to reporters, Harmon said he’s ready to make an impact on the Steelers’ defense.

“I’m ready to go,” Harmon said, per the Steelers’ official website. “If my number’s called, I’m ready to go.” The injury could be a blessing in disguise for Harmon. The former Oregon defensive lineman has had the opportunity to learn more about the NFL and what to expect when he gets on the field for the first time.

“Really just different schemes, how offenses attack the defense,” Harmon stated. “Things we work on, parts of the unit. And how we can compete at a higher level.

Derrick Harmon is ‘staying on top of my game’

“I’ve been in every meeting, every walkthrough, every practice, even though I’m not out there participating. But just learning the schemes and learning the type of defense. We’re putting in new defenses. It’s staying the course and staying on top of my game.”

Of the players listed on the practice report, Harmon was the only one who was a limited participant. Four Steelers did not practice on Thursday due to injuries, and those players were cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), safety DeShon Elliott (knee), linebacker Alex Highsmith (ankle), and offensive lineman Max Scharping (knee). Wide receiver DK Metcalf also didn’t practice, but it was a veteran resting day for him.

Linebacker Patrick Queen (resting vet), cornerback Darius Slay (resting vet), and linebacker TJ Watt (resting vet) were full participants at practice. All three should be ready to go on Sunday when the Steelers take on the New England Patriots.

The Steelers are coming off a 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. They kicked off the season with a 34-32 victory over the New York Jets.