Pittsburgh Steelers rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon was ruled out of the team’s season opener against the New York Jets.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said Harmon won’t play but linebacker Nick Herbig (hamstring) has a chance to be ready Sunday and is trending in that direction.

Harmon, selected by Pittsburgh with the 21st overall pick of the 2025 NFL Draft, was carted off the field with a knee injury during the team’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers on Aug. 21.

The Steelers later revealed that Harmon is dealing with an MCL sprain.

Harmon, 22, is expected to be a starter on the defensive line alongside Keeanu Benton and Cam Heyward. Isaiahh Loudermilk and rookie Yahya Black are likely to see increased playing time until Harmon returns.

Harmon spent three seasons at Michigan State before transferring to Oregon for his senior season in 2024. He played 14 games for the Ducks and posted 45 tackles (11 for loss), five sacks, four passes defended, two fumbles forced and two fumble recoveries.