The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a new era as they head into the 2026 season, with Mike Tomlin departing as their head coach. The Steelers brought in former Super Bowl champion coach Mike McCarthy to replace Tomlin.
While Pittsburgh has a coaching change, they will still be looking to be a consistent playoff team, which is why they hired a veteran coach like McCarthy.
Although much of the focus has been on Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers' offense, the defense will be pivotal in claiming a second straight AFC North title.
One player who could be key to Pittsburgh's defense in the 2026 season is defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, as Fox Sports named him a potential breakout player.
The Steelers selected Harmon with the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he only appeared in 12 games in his rookie campaign as he battled injuries. In his rookie season, Harmon finished with 27 total tackles, a tackle for loss, three sacks, a pass deflection, and a fumble recovery.
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Harmon had a strong senior season at Oregon in 2024, recording 45 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, four pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries, showcasing his talent.
He has the potential to become a staple on the defensive line alongside Cameron Heyward and TJ Watt .
Despite being 37 years old, Heyward is still one of the best defensive tackles in football. In the 2025 season, Heyward finished with 78 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, six pass deflections, and a forced fumble.
Watt was not as dominant in the 2025 season, but still put up solid numbers, posting 55 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, seven sacks, eight pass deflections, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
With two elite pass rushers in Heyward and Watt, Harmon could have a breakout campaign, as opposing offensive lines will be focused on Pittsburgh's star defensive linemen.
The Steelers will be in a new defensive system as McCarthy hired Patrick Graham as the defensive coordinator. Harmon will look to adjust to the new scheme and become a star for Pittsburgh.
