NFL News: Aaron Rodgers teammate has big adjustment planned for his rookie season with the Steelers

Once you end your college career, the first thing you want to hear is Roger Goodell say “with the X pick, the X team selects…” and your name right after. However, once that happens, it’s time to work. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who brought Aaron Rodgers to the team, selected DT Derrick Harmon in the first round during the NFL Draft.

Harmon, who played for Oregon during his college career, has finished his first step as an NFL pro. After OTAs and mandatory minicamp, Harmon reflected on what he needs to work on before the season starts.

Even if he hasn’t played an official NFL game, he already knows what his challenge is. Harmon said the “Biggest difference for me is really just learning the speed of the game.” Mike Tomlin, the Steelers HC, said Harmon had “Steeler DNA” when the team drafted him.

Harmon can be a future leader for the Steelers

The Steelers are known for being tough on defense and having a certain way of playing. HC Mike Tomlin embodies that and he saw Harmon as a player made for Pittsburgh. “We’re really excited about having him. We weren’t interested in considering trading away from him and really excited about getting him in here and getting started.”

Derrick Harmon #DL15 of Oregon participates in the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 27, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Besides, there’s a contract dispute right now between the Steelers and superstar DE T.J. Watt. Also, DT Cameron Heyward is still a star but he’s not getting any younger. This means Pittsburgh is in dire need of having a new, top-tier leader on the defensive line.

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Pittsburgh is in a tough division

As Harmon looks to adjust to the NFL speed, the black-and-gold hope he does it fast and in a hurry. Playing twice against the likes of Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow and possibly Shedeur Sanders means speed is imperative if you want to help your team win the AFC North.

The last time Pittsburgh won the division was back in 2020 where they racked a 12-4 record. Since then, despite having a winning record in every season, they haven’t been able to lift the divisional banner in Acrisure Stadium.