Steelers' Decision-Makers Already Hint That Fans May Be Waiting To See Derrick Harmon Play Significant Snaps

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a lot of questions surrounding the team entering the 2025 NFL Draft. The quarterback position has been talked about for months, but there was arguably, somehow, a more pressing need. That was addressed when the organization made the decision to select University of Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick. Both General Manager Omar Khan and Head Coach Mike Tomlin have been focused on building the trenches in recent years, and that continued on Thursday evening. Cameron Heyward could finally have a dangerous partner-in-crime once again in the Steel City.

Both Khan and Tomlin typically address the media after certain selections each year, and the duo stood in front of the media late on Thursday night to talk about the newest player for the franchise. A run-stopping, pass-rushing, versatile defender is coming to Pittsburgh, and Harmon will have the opportunity to play in his rookie season, but it may not be nearly as much as fans want him to.

The Steelers traditionally take a good while to allow first-year players to jump into the starting lineup. That may be the case even more so with Harmon due to his age. He is just 21 and Khan was very cautious when asked about it and how the youngster can improve.

"You know, he's a young guy," Khan said. "I think he's 21 years old and, you know, I think the ceiling's really high for him and we'll see where it goes. I think we all can improve at everything we do in life. He's got a good opportunity."

Khan didn't directly talk about what he thinks Harmon can possibly do better, but mentioned his age almost immediately. That hints at the fact that both he and Tomlin believe he may take a little bit to get up to NFL speed.

"You know, I was getting ready to say, not to specifically avoid answering your question, but 21-year-old guy, he's got a lot of tools in his toolbox, but there's a lot of areas for him to improve as he transitions from college to professional football," Tomlin said. "We'll have a better sense of it as we begin to work and see him in that setting."

The Steelers needed the reinforcement on the defensive line, but it does not mean that the plan will be to plug-and-play a young rookie. He will have to earn his playing time early on, but more importantly, he needs to develop if he wants to turn into a Pro Bowl-caliber player. There's no reason to believe that he won't have to wait a little before seeing legitimate playing time, especially with both Khan and Tomlin noting his age.

Harmon was all over the place in mock drafts, with some analysts having him falling out of the first round. It was very clear that the Steelers had a first-round grade on him, as it was noted in the press conference that no one else was considered when Pittsburgh was on the clock at 21. Some have been extremely high on the defensive tackle and former Duck.

Pittsburgh officially checked off one critical box in the 2025 NFL Draft, but there are more positions to address. Without a second-round pick, Khan will have his work cut out for him moving forward and throughout the weekend.

Steelers Now Have A Potential Heyward Replacement

Pittsburgh is not ready to say goodbye to Heyward just yet, but if Harmon can blossom into a superstar, it will make the veteran's inevitable retirement much easier to swallow. He will be the perfect mentor for the rookie, and it is exciting to see the organization continue to build up the trenches. The franchise is truly getting back to its roots.

Do you like the selection of Harmon in the first round? Do you think it will be a while before he starts? Let us know in the comments below!

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