Pittsburgh Steelers draft DT Derrick Harmon at No. 21

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, aiming to strengthen their defensive front alongside stars like T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward. Harmon, who transferred from Michigan State after serving as an effective run stopper and pass rusher, had a standout year with the Ducks, posting career highs in tackles for loss and sacks. Despite a flagged shoulder injury before the draft, Harmon did not miss any games in his college career and was compared by scouts to a young Cam Heyward for his size, athleticism, and disruptive play style. At the NFL Combine, Harmon impressed with a 4.95-second 40-yard dash at over 310 pounds, and he led all FBS interior linemen in quarterback pressures last season. The Steelers had shown consistent interest in Harmon throughout the draft process, bringing him in for a pre-draft visit and viewing him as a versatile addition to their defensive line. While some see him as a future successor to Heyward, Harmon is expected to contribute immediately as a five-technique and situational pass rusher.