Derrick Harmon NFL draft grades: How experts viewed Pittsburgh Steelers pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers had Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders on the board with the No. 21 overall pick, but the team opted to take Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon instead.

Both quarterback and defensive line were the two biggest needs by a country mile for the Steelers. Clearly the team didn't feel Sanders was worthy of a pick in that spot and instead opted to take Harmon at No. 21 overall.

The Steelers entered the offseason in need of an upgrade next to Cam Heyward, and their need at the position became bigger after the team cut Larry Ogunjobi. Now, the Steelers will hope Harmon solves their issue and eventually takes the torch from Heyward when he inevitably retires.

In the wake of the Steelers drafting Harmon, here's the grades the team received from experts.

Steelers NFL draft grades for Derrick Harmon

Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News: B-

Iyer: "The Steelers had a massive need at quarterback and passed on both Sanders and Jaxson Dart to reach a bit for a second-round player, extending for a need despite the fact Nolen and Grant were well off the board. Harmon gives them a run-stuffing boost but they have may left more overall impact on the table."

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA TODAY: B+

Middlehurst-Schwartz: "Mike Tomlin's selection will be widely viewed through the lens of the choice he didn't make, namely taking Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Pittsburgh, however, apparently wasn't bluffing with its long-running relaxed attitude toward its uncertainty behind center. Harmon's forcefulness should make him a fast favorite of Tomlin, and he can help a wobbly defense not rely so heavily on Cam Heyward, who will turn 36 next month."

Gavino Borquez, Newsweek: A

Borquez: "The Steelers had the opportunity to take quarterback Shedeur Sanders, but instead opt to improve the trenches. Derrick Harmon has the potential to be the top defensive lineman in this class, and he could be the perfect heir-apparent to Cam Heyward. Harmon should start and wreak havoc immediately in the Steel City."

MORE PITTSBURGH STEELERS NEWS

Why did Steelers pass on Shedeur Sanders?

Full list of Steelers picks in 2025 NFL draft

Proposed Steelers trade brings in $4 million QB amid Aaron Rodgers wait

MORE 2025 NFL DRAFT: NFL draft trades tracker | SN's 7-round mock | Top 250 big board | Expert mock draft roundup