Harmon, the No. 21 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, exited in the second quarter after a play resulting in a Steelers interception. After heading to the medical tent, Harmon was taken to the locker room on a cart. Cameras later showed him on the Pittsburgh bench in good spirits, though he did not return to the field. Before the injury, Harmon recorded one tackle against the Panthers.
The 22-year-old had been listed as a starting defensive end on the Steelers’ depth chart and was making a strong impression in camp. Assistant general manager Andy Weidl praised Harmon’s explosiveness, length, and technique, noting his consistent energy and ability to escape blocks, as reported by Mike DeFabo of The Athletic.
Harmon came to Pittsburgh after a standout collegiate career, playing three seasons at Michigan State before transferring to Oregon. At Oregon, he posted 45 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, and two forced fumbles in his junior season, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors and Associated Press second-team All-American recognition. His preseason performance included three tackles and a sack against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Should Harmon miss time, Daniel Ekuale and Yahya Black are expected to see increased snaps on the defensive line. With roster cutdown day approaching, Harmon’s status remains an important storyline for the Steelers as they prepare for the regular season.
For more updates on Derrick Harmon’s status, visit ESPN player page and follow the latest from the Bleacher Report injury update.