Steelers’ Derrick Harmon Sends An Extremely Clear Message About Taking “That Next Step” In 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers have entered a pivotal free agency period, where they'll have to determine the job status of several players on the roster. Some of these players will eventually stay with the team, while others will find new opportunities elsewhere. However, the Steelers also have younger players on the roster that are looking to make their presence known. 

One of these key younger players is defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. He has made it known he wants to take the lessons learned last season and apply them to make himself even better going into 2026. The Steelers appear to want to make defensive tackle a key position addition in free agency, which will only serve to help Harmon. He shows just how eager he really is to go out there and improve himself, which will be something to look forward to for Steelers fans as the team also adds depth.

Earlier on Wednesday, Chris Adamski of TribLive published an article detailing the preparations Harmon was involving himself in and his outlook on how the season ended for the Steelers. Notably, a quote from Harmon here is included that shows his mindset and just how valuable it is for the Steelers moving forward. If Harmon is able to go out there and do what he says, big things could be in store for the second-year player.

"I know what to expect (at the NFL level) and what’s going to be asked of me," Harmon said. "So now it’s a matter of working on those things over the offseason and coming back prepared. I’ve just got to look back on this film and see what I can do better. Nothing’s ever perfect, so I’ve just gotta clean up the little things and come back next year. And take that next step."

Harmon's desire to take that next step is certainly something the Steelers can be excited about, as his performance last year was exemplary when he was on the field. Harmon did miss a few games last season due to injury, and when he was not on the field, his absence was felt. This is a sign that a player is making a huge impact on scheming, and for Harmon to do this as a rookie and comment that he wants to be better, is truly exciting to hear.

Harmon taking the next step would certainly be a huge leap in his career, as well. Should Harmon be able to stay on the field throughout the regular season and take this next leap forward, there's a chance he could vault himself into Defensive Player of the Year conversations. Time will tell, however, if Harmon is able to do so. 

With how the Steelers will be changing in dramatic ways next season, it would make sense for the team to ensure that Harmon is one of the centerpieces they build around as the roster is reloaded with younger players through the draft. Finding other defensive tackles to pair with Harmon will be critical, and one other very important piece will be regarding the ones already surrounding Harmon.

Steelers' Cam Heyward Can Continue To Mentor Harmon

With how many veterans remain on the Steelers' roster, it's important that these veterans are able to stay as long as they can and wish to help mentor the younger players. For Harmon to get better at his game, having defensive tackle Cameron Heyward continue to mentor him will be something that will hopefully impact Harmon in a positive way, allowing him to truly take that next step to becoming a better player.

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