Steelers’ Strategic Drafting: The Case for Derrick Harmon
When the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Derrick Harmon in this year’s draft, the decision was driven by a clear vision: acquiring a versatile and physically imposing defensive lineman capable of making an immediate impact. Harmon’s combination of size, agility, and skill set suggests he’s poised to contribute right from the start, challenging the traditional expectations of rookie development. As noted by Mike DeFabo, a seasoned reporter for The Athletic who closely follows the Steelers, Harmon’s potential is evident and promising.
Assessing Harmon’s Potential Role on the Defensive Line
During a recent appearance on 93.7 The Fan, DeFabo highlighted Harmon’s strengths, emphasizing his prowess against the run and pass. Despite being primarily recognized as a defensive tackle, Harmon distinguished himself last season by leading all interior defensive linemen nationally with 55 quarterback pressures. This statistic underscores his ability to disrupt plays and generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
DeFabo explained, “Derrick Harmon, while primarily a run-stopper, has shown he can excel in pass-rushing situations as well. His 55 pressures last year put him at the top among interior linemen, giving him the potential to be a three-down player.”
Filling the Void Left by Departures and the Need for Immediate Impact
With the recent release of Larry Ogunjobi, the Steelers are in urgent need of a reliable interior presence. Harmon’s skill set aligns well with this requirement, positioning him as a candidate to step into a significant role early in his career. The team’s depth chart suggests that Harmon could be a key figure, especially considering the current roster composition.
In addition to Harmon, the Steelers might consider starting Isaiahh Loudermilk or even Dean Lowry, or integrating DeMarvin Leal into their rotation. However, Harmon’s athleticism and pass-rushing ability make him a particularly attractive option for immediate deployment. The pre-draft buzz consistently linked him to Pittsburgh, with many mock drafts predicting a Steelers selection once he was available.
Early Contributions and the Importance of Speedy Integration
Now that Harmon is part of the Steelers, the focus shifts to rapid integration into the team’s defensive schemes. While the pads remain off during the offseason, Harmon’s athletic showcase thus far demonstrates his readiness to contribute. His quick adaptation could be crucial, especially given the team’s current pass rush struggles.
Addressing Pass Rush Limitations
Despite boasting stars like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Cameron Heyward, the Steelers have struggled to generate consistent pressure on quarterbacks. Their sack total last season ranked 16th in the league, with only 40 sacks, and their pressure rate stood at 22%, placing them in the middle of the pack. Adding a dynamic interior pass rusher like Harmon could significantly bolster their pass-rushing capabilities.
Strategic Timing for Harmon’s Deployment
It’s imperative for the Steelers to accelerate Harmon’s development and get him on the field as soon as possible. Given the limited depth behind Heyward, Harmon’s presence could be a game-changer. While other interior linemen like Loudermilk or Lowry can fill in, they lack the pass-rushing juice that Harmon offers. His athleticism and disruptive potential make him a valuable asset in improving the team’s overall pass defense.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for the Steelers’ Defensive Front
In summary, the Steelers’ draft strategy with Derrick Harmon reflects a commitment to strengthening their defensive front with a player capable of immediate impact. His unique skill set, combined with the team’s current needs, positions him as a key piece in their ongoing efforts to enhance pass rush productivity. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Harmon to see how quickly he can translate his athletic talent into on-field success, potentially transforming the Steelers’ defensive outlook for the upcoming season.
