The Pittsburgh Steelers have passed on a quarterback in Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft. The team selected Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with the No.21 overall pick, opting to add a potential immediate impact defensive player over Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart.
Harmon had a fantastic 2024 campaign for the Ducks, posting five sacks and 55 quarterback pressures with 25 defensive stops. The Michigan State transfer should step in as a starter on the interior of Pittsburgh's defensive line next to Cam Heyward and could be a future building block for Mike Tomlin's squad.
Taking Harmon in Round 1 addresses a pressing need for the Steelers and gives Pittsburgh a promising defensive line under an affordable rookie contract. According to Spotrac, Harmon's rookie deal is worth $17.9 million over four seasons, with a $9.6 million signing bonus and a fifth-year option for 2029.
Harmon has a ton of pass-rushing potential, but he is also a solid run blocker and has the versatility to be a two-gap player.
Here is some more information on Harmon from NFL.com's Lance Zierlein:
"Position-versatile building block that makes moving the football a much tougher task. Harmon is wide, long and naturally powerful at the point of attack. He can create traffic jams inside as a two-gapper or stunt and power his way into the backfield. He’s unlikely to be a primary sack man, but he can be part of a swarm unit that batters the pocket. He’s high-cut and tight-hipped, which limits his agility and reactive athleticism to finish. Harmon can play up and down the line in both odd and even fronts. He will bring an instant dose of stinginess and toughness to any defense he joins."
Selecting a quarterback may have been the popular pick, but addressing the trenches with Harmon in Round 1 could pay dividends for the Steelers in the future.
MORE PITTSBURGH STEELERS NEWS
Full list of Steelers picks in 2025 NFL draft
Proposed Steelers trade brings in $4 million QB amid Aaron Rodgers wait
MORE 2025 NFL DRAFT: NFL draft trades tracker | SN's 7-round mock | Top 250 big board | Expert mock draft roundup