Steelers’ Derrick Harmon gets emotional as he’s carted off field with injury

Key Takeaways:

• Derrick Harmon, the Steelers’ top draft pick, sustained an injury and left the game on a cart
• The emotional response from Harmon highlights the gravity of the situation for a rookie
• Pittsburgh must now finish the preseason without a key player
• The preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers proceeds minus Harmon
• USA TODAY reported the incident on August 22, 2025

Injury on the Field

Derrick Harmon, a promising newcomer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was carted off the field during the team’s final preseason game. Details regarding the specific nature of the injury remain limited, but the immediate impact was clear.

Emotional Toll

Witnesses described Harmon as visibly shaken following the incident. While injuries are an expected part of football, the disappointment for a top draft pick who hoped to make a strong preseason impression cannot be overstated. Harmon’s departure from the field in tears showed the toll this setback has taken on him personally.

Preseason Implications

The Steelers were set to face the Carolina Panthers in their preseason finale, a critical match for final roster decisions and evaluations. Losing Harmon at such a juncture is a blow to Pittsburgh’s plans, particularly as the coaching staff evaluates the team’s depth ahead of the regular season.

Looking Ahead

Although no further details about the injury have emerged, being ruled out of the preseason finale suggests that Harmon’s return may not be immediate. For now, the Steelers will adapt their defensive (or overall team) strategy and look toward the regular season without their top draft pick in the lineup. The timing of this development underscores the unpredictable nature of preseason football, where one moment can reshape a team’s outlook.