How a Steelers 22-Year-Old Defensive Lineman Can Extend the Career of Cam Heyward in 2026
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall pick, and many expected him to be the successor to longtime defensive captain Cameron Heyward. Starting eight games as a rookie, the former Oregon Duck recorded 27 total tackles, five QB hits, three sacks, and one TFL. More importantly, he opened the door for Heyward to continue his dominance even at 36 years old. Heyward was named to the AP Second Team All-Pro, while recording 78 total tackles, nine TFLs, nine QB hits, and three and a half sacks. Heading into his sophomore season, Harmon now looks to take the much-expected jump that the Steelers expected when they took him in the first round. Analyst Sam Monson believes the 313-pound lineman won’t just make the jump but will reach another level in 2026. Monson said, “I think you can argue that he’s already pretty good, but I do think Harmon could be a real impact playmaker for that defensive line. Derrick Harmon could be in line for a jump.” If he can deliver, he would not only prove Monson and others right, but he’d pave the way for Heyward to flourish, even playing his 16th season at 37 years old.
Steelers' new defensive line coach Domata Peko has also spoken highly of Harmon and believes that he can improve as a pass rusher and find a way to get to the quarterback more. Peko expressed excitement about working with the defensive line and sees the young interior lineman as the perfect player to improve an already strong core. Harmon should deliver, and if he does, former Bills GM Doug Whaley believes that it will extend the “shelf life” of the 37-year-old veteran. Agreeing with Monson and Peko, Whaley said, “I think Harmon’s going to break out. He showed some flashes last year, and I think it’s going to take some pressure off of Cam Heyward, and that’s where I think Heyward’s gonna still thrive.” With or without help, Heyward has shown that even at his age, he’s one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL. Similar to fine wine, the Ohio State star just gets better with age. He’s been named to five Pro Bowls since turning 30, as well as being a three-time AP First Team All-Pro selection and a two-time AP Second Team All-Pro selection. If the young kid out of Oregon has a breakout year, who knows what kind of damage Heyward could do alongside him.
Similar to a team with two great wide receivers, the Steelers can cause confusion and disruption for opposing offensive lines as they try to evenly distribute attention between Harmon and Heyward. The two have at least two seasons together, as the seven-time pro bowler signed an extension through the 2027 season, but if Harmon can continue to take the pressure off of him over these next two seasons, the future between Heyward and the Steelers may be able to extend. Whaley said, “We’re gonna be sitting here next year like ‘Can you believe Cam Heyward had such a year?’ I think it’s because offenses are gonna have to shift some focus to Harmon and that will give Heyward a little extra time.” It places the Steel City in a really good position. Heyward can still deliver at his age, and they have faith in Harmon. Next season will be a big one for the 22-year-old, but could be equally as big for the longtime captain. As Ray Fittipaldo said, “He’s the future. Cam Heyward keeps coming back, but eventually, Derrick Harmon is gonna be the anchor of that defensive line.” Until then, Steelers fans will be happy having two heavy-hitters rather than just one anchor for 2026.
