What are the Pittsburgh Steelers going to do with the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft? Are they going to go after a quarterback in an attempt to find their future franchise leader? Perhaps Ole Miss’ QB Jaxson Dart, who they are bringing in for a pre-draft visit? Or will they opt for reinforcing the defensive line with a prospect like Oregon DT Derrick Harmon?
That’s who the Associated Press’ Rob Maaddi tabbed for the Steelers in his latest mock draft on Friday. The Steelers have a definite need on the line as franchise icon DT Cam Heyward is getting close to the end of his decorated career. It’s arguably the top need after the Steelers’ big move this offseason at wide receiver.
“The Steelers acquired DK Metcalf to address their need for a wideout,” wrote Maaddi. “The 6-foot-4, 313-pound Harmon is considered one of the better defensive prospects in the draft.”
At one point, Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka was one of the most popular names for the Steelers in the first round. The Steelers needed new talent after no one stepped up opposite WR George Pickens in 2024. But that all changed when general manager Omar Khan swung for the fences and traded for former Seattle Seahawks WR DK Metcalf on the eve of free agency.
The Steelers will likely want to add more talent at the wide receiver position. However, they have more pressing needs in the first round. One of those spots is on the defensive line.
Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora took a good, long look at Harmon to prep for the draft. Harmon’s strength is a big part of his game, which is what the Steelers need. And Harmon has experience playing in a 3-man front at Oregon. That could help his transition to Pittsburgh’s line.
Brett Kollmann from Underdog highlighted Derrick Harmon as a great fit with Steelers defensive line coach Karl Dunbar. A big part of that is Harmon’s experience playing in a similar defensive front to Pittsburgh’s. He could turn out to be the Heyward replacement in a year or two when Cam hangs his cleats up. And with his size and strength, he can still be an able-bodied rotational player before stepping into a full-time role.
Recommended for you