Steelers’ Defensive Star Status Revealed: Injury Update Sparks Hope and Raises Questions

So here’s a question for you: When a promising rookie like Derrick Harmon limps off the field during a high-stakes preseason clash, what’s the immediate reaction? Panic? Dread? Or maybe a cautious hope that it’s not as bad as it looks? Steelers fans got that rollercoaster of emotions last Thursday in Charlotte, watching their 2025 first-round pick carted off against the Panthers. But here’s the twist — the MRI results brought a sigh of cautious relief: an MCL sprain, not a career-crippling catastrophe. Now, with the season opener looming on September 7, the real puzzle is whether Pittsburgh’s defensive ace in the making will be back after just one missed game. The stakes? Oh, just the entire defensive front’s rhythm — and, frankly, the Steelers’ early-season mojo. Buckle up, because this update could change the narrative for a team banking big on its rookie’s quick comeback.

The Pittsburgh Steelers received encouraging news about rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harmon following his knee injury during Thursday’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers.

Harmon was carted off the field after suffering what initial reports suggested could be a significant setback to his promising start with the team.

An MRI revealed an MCL sprain that typically requires four to six weeks of recovery time.

With a couple of weeks remaining before the September 7 season opener, the timeline initially appeared problematic for Pittsburgh’s first-round draft pick.

Recent updates have shifted the outlook considerably.

“Steelers have no intention of putting Harmon on IR and think it’s possible he will miss only one game,” Insider Gerry Dulac updated.

An MRI confirmed Derrick Harmon has an MCL sprain that could keep him out 4-6 weeks, per sources. But, because there are 16 days from the time of injury till the Sept. 7 opener, it is conceivable Harmon could miss only a couple games. He is not expected to be placed on IR.

— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) August 22, 2025

The 21st overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft had been making a strong impression throughout training camp and preseason action.

Harmon showcased the quickness and pass rush ability that made him an attractive target for Pittsburgh’s defensive front.

His potential absence places additional responsibility on veterans like Cameron Heyward and developing players such as Isaiahh Loudermilk.

Rookie Yahya Black also earned praise for his pass rush performance in the preseason finale and could see expanded opportunities.

The Steelers have already begun Harmon’s rehabilitation process with hopes of having him available for the home opener against Seattle.

While any injury to a key player creates concern, the manageable timeline allows Pittsburgh to maintain its defensive plans without major adjustments.

The positive prognosis represents welcome news for a team counting on Harmon to contribute immediately as a rookie starter.

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