newsweek
In a recent Thursday Night Football matchup, the Pittsburgh Steelers fell to their AFC North rivals, the Cleveland Browns, by a score of 27-24. The game also brought misfortune for the Steelers as their 2025 first-round draft selection, defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, sustained an injury.
Harmon injured his foot during the first half of the contest and had to be transported off the field on a cart. He was subsequently spotted wearing a walking boot, and reports indicated he was set to undergo an MRI on Friday.
On Sunday, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter provided an encouraging update, citing a source who stated that Harmon would be out for a few weeks. Schefter also noted that Pittsburgh might place him on injured reserve, though the injury is not believed to be a long-term issue.
This development is favorable for the Steelers as they aim to contend for the division title in what is quarterback Aaron Rodgers' final NFL season.
Pittsburgh selected Harmon with the No. 21 overall pick in the previous year's draft after he played collegiately at Oregon. He also spent three seasons at Michigan State.
During his rookie campaign, Harmon appeared in 12 games and made eight starts for the Steelers. He amassed 27 combined tackles, three sacks, and a fumble recovery, and was expected to play a key role on defense in his second year.
Harmon made a significant impact in the team's Week 3 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, forcing a strip-sack on quarterback Joe Burrow that helped secure the win.
According to ESPN's Ian Rapoport, cornerback Jamel Dean may also miss several weeks as he rehabilitates an ankle injury.
The updates on Harmon and Dean emerged shortly after the Steelers traded cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a package that included a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick.
Pittsburgh currently holds a 2-2 record and sits fourth in the AFC North. They are set to host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 1 p.m. ET.
Key Analysis
The Steelers' defensive depth is being tested with Harmon and Dean potentially sidelined. Harmon's absence could impact the team's pass rush and run defense, while Dean's injury further strains the secondary. The trade of Porter Jr. adds to the defensive shake-up, but the return of draft picks may help Pittsburgh build for the future. With a crucial divisional race ahead, the team will need other players to step up in their absence.
Originally reported by newsweek.