Steelers Rookie WR Opens Up on Battling Depression to Reach NFL Stardom
Pittsburgh, PA — September 25, 2025 — Pittsburgh Steelers rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, a first-round pick making waves with his disruptive presence, shared a powerful story of overcoming depression that nearly ended his NFL dream. In an exclusive interview with Steelers Depot, Harmon detailed how hitting rock bottom during his junior year at Oregon propelled him to prominence in Pittsburgh.
“Depression crushed me after my MCL sprain in 2023,” Harmon said. “I felt like I’d lost everything—my identity, my future. Days blended into nights, and I couldn’t face the world. But talking to my family and a therapist turned it around. Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s power.”
Selected 21st overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Harmon has shown star potential in Pittsburgh’s 2-1 start, recording a sack and a forced fumble in his Week 3 debut against the New England Patriots. His journey from despair to Acrisure Stadium embodies the Steelers’ gritty spirit. “Overcoming that darkness makes every play mean more,” he added. “I’m here for my teammates, the fans who believed in me when I doubted myself. Mental health needs more talk in football—it’s okay to struggle.”
With injuries sidelining Alex Highsmith, Joey Porter Jr., and Max Scharping, Harmon’s emergence alongside T.J. Watt and Yahya Black has bolstered Pittsburgh’s defense, which forced five turnovers against the Patriots. As the Steelers prepare for a Week 4 showdown with the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Harmon’s story resonates with a team chasing AFC North dominance.
Steelers Nation is taking notice. On X, fans hailed Harmon, with one post reading, “Derrick’s a warrior on and off the field!” His openness about mental health challenges inspires a squad navigating adversity, proving that from the depths of depression comes unyielding determination. As Pittsburgh eyes a deep playoff run, Harmon isn’t just a rookie standout—he’s a symbol of resilience.
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