Steelers First-Round Pick Harmon Sidelined Weeks with MCL Sprain

Pittsburgh Steelers first-round draft pick Derrick Harmon suffered an MCL sprain in his knee during the preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers, which will sideline him for approximately four to six weeks. Despite the injury occurring in the final preseason game and initially appearing severe, MRI results confirmed the sprain is not as grave as feared, allowing optimism for a relatively quick recovery and a potential return by mid to late September. Harmon, expected to be the Steelers' only rookie starter on defense, will likely miss two to four regular-season games but is not anticipated to be placed on injured reserve. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin praised Harmon's performance throughout training camp, highlighting his competitiveness and potential despite being a work in progress. With Harmon sidelined, fellow rookie Yahya Black may be called upon to contribute more significantly to the defensive line. The Steelers are hopeful Harmon will join the lineup by their Week 3 game against New England, aiming to strengthen their defense after last season's early playoff exit.