2025 NFL Draft Results: Steelers select Derrick Harmon with 1st round pick

Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a number of draft needs that they needed to address. The Steelers don’t possess a full allotment of draft picks after trading for DK Metcalf, and there were several positions which would be considered a glaring need on their roster.

With six total picks, the following positions could be viewed as a priority entering the selection process: defensive line, quarterback, wide receiver, cornerback, safety and even safety. Those positions, and more, were positions of need to help the black-and-gold get to the next level in 2025. There have been numerous thoughts and debates regarding what the team will do in Round 1 of the NFL Draft.

When the dust settled, the Steelers selected Derrick Harmon out of Oregon with their first pick in the draft.

With the 21st pick in the 2025 #NFLDraft, we select DT Derrick Harmon. pic.twitter.com/34y9H5GqdH

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 25, 2025

For a breakdown of what Harmon brings to the Steelers, this from our own Andrew Wilbar:

Derrick Harmon | DL | Oregon
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 310 lbs
Draft Projection: Mid to Late 1st
Notable Accomplishment: AP Second Team All-American

Pros: After three seasons at Michigan State, Harmon transferred to Oregon and enjoyed a breakout season to the tune of 45 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 9 QB hurries, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 3 batted passes. As a prospect, I was blown away by his quickness off the snap. He explodes out of his stance and has a nice flurry of pass rushing moves, including a killer rip move. What makes him even more difficult to defend is that he is capable of lining up anywhere along the defensive line. Oregon would move Harmon around to keep opposing offenses guessing, but he produced no matter where he played. I think he projects best as a 5-technique in the NFL, where he can get the most out of his long frame and create consistent penetration against opposing tackles and guards. As a run defender, he does a wonderful job disengaging from blocks and sensing where the ball carrier is at.

Cons: There are occasional plays when Harmon’s instincts let him down. He will sense a pass play when it is really a run, and he will overrun the ball carrier in pursuit of the quarterback. Part of that could simply be due to his given assignment within the defensive play call, but regardless, maintaining better discipline and awareness will be an important aspect of his development. His quickness upfield and suddenness off the snap can sometimes be a double-edged sword for Harmon, as he can get too excited and leave his chest completely exposed. This will be a bigger issue in the NFL if he does not get it cleaned up.

Overview: Harmon’s passion, athleticism, and schematic versatility will all appeal to teams, but his draft stock could range from the middle of Round 1 to the middle of Round 2. This is a deep group of defensive tackles, and NFL teams will each have their favorite for their scheme. If teams view Harmon as a tweener who does not fit any one position rather than a versatile weapon who can align anywhere, he could slip further than he probably deserves to.

NFL Comparison: Chris Jones

What do you think of the pick? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to check out the Breaking News Podcast in the player below with a more detailed look on the draft pick: