Steelers’ 1 round pick Rejects Snap Limits, Demands More Playtime: ‘Can’t Hold a Dog Back Forever’

Pittsburgh, PA — September 19, 2025

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon is ready to unleash his potential after missing the first two games of the 2025 season due to an MCL sprain. Following limited practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, the first-round pick made a bold statement, rejecting any snap count restrictions and demanding a larger role in the team’s Week 3 clash against the New England Patriots. “You can’t hold a dog back forever,” Harmon declared, via the team’s website. “I’m ready to eat, ready to help this team stop the run and get back to dominating.”

Harmon’s fiery comments come at a critical juncture for the Steelers, who are 1-1 after a 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The team’s run defense, a cornerstone of their “Steel Curtain” identity, has been porous, allowing an alarming 149.5 rushing yards per game (182 to the Jets in Week 1, 117 to the Seahawks in Week 2). With injuries decimating the roster—linebacker Patrick Queen (ribs), Alex Highsmith (ankle), Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), DeShon Elliott (MCL sprain), and guard Max Scharping (ACL tear, out for season)—Harmon’s return is a beacon of hope. His 6-foot-4, 315-pound frame and college reputation for clogging lanes could be the antidote to Pittsburgh’s defensive woes.

Head coach Mike Tomlin has been cautious, noting Harmon’s limited practice reps as he recovers from his preseason injury. However, the rookie’s insistence on playing without restrictions has sparked buzz. “I’m not here to be babied,” Harmon said. “I was drafted to make a difference, and I’m ready to show it.” His comments echo the frustration of a defense that has surrendered 31+ points in both games, a first under Tomlin’s tenure.

The Steelers’ coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, faces pressure to improve before facing a Patriots team that ran for 122 yards in their Week 2 win over Miami. Veteran additions like linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley and safety Jabrill Peppers, signed to the practice squad, signal urgency, but Harmon’s potential debut could be pivotal. Meanwhile, Keeanu Benton, a 2023 second-round pick, faces scrutiny for his regression, potentially opening the door for Harmon and rookie Yahya Black to claim snaps.

Fans on X are electrified, with one post stating, “Harmon’s ready to feast! Let’s see that dog unleashed!” Others caution restraint, citing his recent injury. As Pittsburgh prepares for Sunday at Gillette Stadium, Harmon’s demand for more playtime challenges Tomlin to balance caution with the need for a spark. With the AFC North race intensifying, Harmon’s debut could mark a turning point—or a risky gamble—for a Steelers defense desperate to reclaim its dominance.