Overview
- Derrick Harmon returned to practice Wednesday and the Steelers formally opened his 21-day injured‑reserve activation window, a process that allows him to practice before the team must activate him or leave him on IR for the year.
- Harmon was placed on IR on October 10 after suffering a foot injury in the Week 4 loss at Cleveland and has completed the NFL minimum absence prior to this designation.
- Before the injury he produced notable early-season impact in four games, recording 12 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, two quarterback hits, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble that helped clinch a win over Cincinnati.
- Pittsburgh’s defensive front has continued to perform at a high level without Harmon, leading the league in defensive rush success rate and ranking fourth in total EPA since Week 4, with younger linemen stepping into larger roles.
- The team could activate Harmon in time for Sunday night at Cincinnati but his playing status is not assured and the Steelers may use the practice window to monitor his foot and ease him back to avoid a setback.