Steelers rookie Derrick Harmon draws rave reviews in first training camp practice

Mike Moraitis

Steelers rookie Derrick Harmon draws rave reviews in first training camp practice image

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers are hoping Derrick Harmon can follow in the footsteps of Cam Heyward and become the next great defensive lineman in Pittsburgh.

Drafted in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft, Harmon is expected to play a starting role with the Steelers in his first season, but first he's got to prove he belongs in training camp and during the preseason.

It looks like Harmon is off to a good start, as Sporting News' Jarrett Bailey reported that Harmon "looks great" and made at least two noteworthy plays on Thursday.

"Back to back huge plays for Derrick Harmon. Blows up a run and then bats down a pass by Aaron Rodgers at the line. First-round pick looks great," Bailey wrote.

Another Steelers beat writer concurred.

"Derrick Harmon’s had a pretty darn good 1st training camp practice today in Latrobe," Chat Sports' Jack Sperry wrote.

Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot noted that Harmon was lining up as the defensive end on the left side and praised the rookie for his bull rush on one rep.

There's still a long way to go, but Harmon is as advertised early on.

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Mike Moraitis

Mike Moraitis is a freelance writer who covers the NFL for the Sporting News. Over his nearly two decades covering sports, Mike has also worked for Bleacher Report, USA TODAY and FanSided. He hates writing in the third person.