A 2-1 preseason finish looks nice on paper and should give Mike Tomlin’s squad some momentum heading into the regular season. But when you dig a little deeper, not everything is trending upward — especially when it comes to the health of first-round pick Derick Harmon.
Harmon, the dynamic defensive tackle out of Oregon, suffered a knee sprain during the first half of the Steelers’ preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers. The moment caused immediate concern. The replay was uncomfortable to watch, and the energy shifted instantly.
But there was a moment of relief — and even a glimmer of hope — when Harmon was later seen smiling on the sidelines next to veteran leader T.J. Watt.
The early signs suggest the injury might not be as devastating as initially feared. Still, it’s unlikely the Steelers rush him back — especially this early in the season. That puts pressure on defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and the rest of the defense to adapt without their prized rookie in the lineup.
Enter Yahya Black.
The 6-foot-5, 336-pound rookie out of Iowa seized the moment in Harmon’s absence, putting together a performance that was both dominant and timely. Black recorded two sacks, five tackles, and a forced fumble, wreaking havoc in the middle of the defensive line.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can rely on Yahya Black during the regular season
It was exactly the kind of statement game the coaching staff needed to see from someone fighting for playing time.
Black may not carry the same expectations or draft pedigree as Harmon — he was taken in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft — but make no mistake: the potential is there. During his time at Iowa, Black totaled 5.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss over four seasons.
His game is built on strength, raw power, and a relentless motor. There’s room for development, sure, but he fits the mold of what Pittsburgh loves in its defensive linemen.
READ MORE: Recent bold Steelers prediction may not be as unlikely as it seems
With Harmon sidelined for now, Black will almost certainly see increased reps as the Steelers prepare to open their season against Justin Fields and the New York Jets.
He’ll likely rotate in alongside Keanu Benton and Daniel Ekuale, who are expected to anchor the defensive front. The trio might not be household names — yet — but if Thursday night was any indication, there’s reason for optimism.
Tomlin’s defenses have always thrived on depth, adaptability, and grit. While losing a talent like Harmon is never ideal, it’s encouraging to see someone like Black step up when called upon. Injuries are part of the NFL reality, but they also reveal character and test preparation.
The Steelers are about to find out what they have in Yahya Black. If he continues to build on this momentum, Harmon’s temporary absence might not hurt quite as much — and Pittsburgh may have found another diamond in the rough.