The Pittsburgh Steelers lost Derrick Harmon in Week 4 when they placed him on injured reserve , sidelining him for at least four games. His replacements, however, have filled in admirably. Unfortunately, one of those key players also went down with an injury and landed on injured reserve. Offseason signing Sebastian Joseph-Day suffered a triceps injury , and it was unclear if or when he would return. Now, we may know his fate for the season. As a result, the Steelers could be in the market for help at another position ahead of the trade deadline.
In an interview with Steelers insider Gerry Dulac, Jack Sawyer let slip that Joseph-Day's triceps injury is season-ending .
"Obviously, we're looking forward to getting [Derrick Harmon] back. It sucks we're not gonna be able to get Sebastian back for, maybe at all," Sawyer said.
Steelers May Need to Acquire Veteran Depth at Defensive Tackle

Oct 1, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) is taken off the field for an injury against the Cleveland Browns in the first half at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Though Harmon is expected to return this season, it is unclear when that will happen. Additionally, while Kevin Jobity Jr. and Gabriel Rubio have been solid contributors, they are rookies. The interior could be one minor or major injury away from a big change in its depth outlook, and that could change the trajectory of the defense.
With how well this defensive line has played, the Steelers don't want to lose that momentum. General manager Omar Khan may need to seriously consider trading for veteran depth as insurance now that Joseph-Day's injury looks to be season-ending. Who exactly fits that bill is uncertain, as few names on that front have surfaced on the trade block.

Oct 16, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan looks on during warmups before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh isn't going to swing for a DeForest Buckner – or Jeffery Simmons -caliber trade if it decides to add to that room. However, if the Colts are still in fire-sale mode, Grover Stewart could be available at a bargain. He is in the last year of his contract and could be a solid addition. This is merely one example of the type of player the Steelers could acquire.
Ultimately, any move will likely come closer to Tuesday's deadline, as teams finish game preparations for Week 9. Reports continue to link the Steelers to a number of wide receivers, and that might be the more likely trade route. However, don't be surprised if the Steelers keep tabs on the market for a move to offset the loss of Joseph-Day.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
