Steelers Rookie Derrick Harmon in Tears After Devastating Preseason Setback

Steelers Rookie Derrick Harmon Suffers Devastating Knee Injury in Preseason Finale
By Max Winters, US Deputy Sports Editor

Pittsburgh Steelers first-round pick Derrick Harmon faced a heart-wrenching moment during Thursday’s preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers, as the 22-year-old defensive tackle was carted off the field with a suspected knee injury. The incident left the promising rookie visibly emotional, casting a shadow over his highly anticipated NFL debut just weeks before the regular season.

Harmon, selected 20th overall in this year’s draft, collapsed during the game’s early stages in Charlotte. Team medical staff rushed to assess him before loading him onto a cart. Despite obvious distress, he managed to climb onto the cart unaided, clutching his leg as he departed to the locker room. The Steelers quickly ruled him out for the remainder of the game, with fears mounting over the severity of the injury.

Harmon was a standout during preseason games before the injury.

A Blow to Pittsburgh’s Defense
The injury could not have come at a worse time for head coach Mike Tomlin, who had planned to pair Harmon with veterans Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton on the defensive line. Harmon’s strength and agility had already made him a standout in preseason, where he participated in all three games. Notably, he was one of the few starters still on the field when the injury occurred, reflecting the coaching staff’s confidence in his readiness for Week 1.

“We’re holding our breath for test results,” a team insider said. “Losing Derrick would be a huge setback.” The Steelers’ defense, already navigating uncertainties, now faces added pressure ahead of their season opener against the New York Jets on September 7.

Preseason Risks and Tough Decisions
Tomlin’s decision to play key starters deeper into the preseason finale raised eyebrows. While most first-string players exited after one series, Harmon remained—a strategy that backfired tragically. The game itself ended in a 14-10 Steelers loss, but the score felt trivial compared to Harmon’s absence.

Harmon’s draft day selection now hangs under a cloud of uncertainty.

What’s Next for Harmon?
Medical evaluations will determine whether Harmon faces a short-term recovery or a season-ending setback. Knee injuries, particularly ligament tears, can sideline players for months, though the Steelers have yet to confirm specifics. Rookies Montravius Adams and DeMarvin Leal may now see increased roles if Harmon is unavailable.

The Steelers’ matchup against the Jets at MetLife Stadium looms large, with Aaron Rodgers’ return adding headline drama. Pittsburgh’s defense, however, may enter the game without a pivotal piece of their revamped lineup.

As fans await updates, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile line between preseason preparation and catastrophic injury. For Harmon, drafted to bolster a storied franchise, the road ahead hinges on a diagnosis that could redefine his rookie year.

Follow for updates on Harmon’s condition and Steelers’ season preparations.

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