Steelers Placed Derrick Harmon on Injured Reserve

The Pittsburgh Steelers moved Derrick Harmon to injured reserve due to a foot injury.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Football

Steelers Placed Derrick Harmon on Injured Reserve

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed Derrick Harmon on injured reserve following a foot injury. Gabriel Rubio and Kevin Jobity Jr. are potential candidates to fill the roster spot.

Why it matters

The team must adjust its defensive line rotation after losing Harmon to injury. This shift creates a potential opening for rookie Gabriel Rubio to make his NFL debut.

Gabriel Rubio recorded 9 tackles in the preseason after being selected 210th overall. He stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 321 pounds, while Kevin Jobity Jr. measures 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds.

The players

Derrick Harmon

He is a defensive player for the Pittsburgh Steelers who has been moved to the injured reserve list.

Gabriel Rubio

He is a rookie defensive player drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 210th overall pick.

Kevin Jobity Jr.

He is a defensive player for the Pittsburgh Steelers who may be activated for the upcoming game.

Pittsburgh Steelers

They are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh that competes in the NFL.

Indianapolis Colts

They are a professional football team based in Indianapolis that will face the Steelers this Sunday.

The details

Gabriel Rubio was inactive for the first four games of the season but spoke about his readiness for action. The Steelers must decide between him and Kevin Jobity Jr. as the team prepares to host the Indianapolis Colts.

October 6, 2026: Gabriel Rubio addressed his readiness for potential playing time.
October 11, 2026: The one-year anniversary of the final college game played by Rubio.
October 12, 2026: The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium.

Season Trajectory

This roster adjustment forces the Steelers to rely on rookie depth as they navigate the mid-season schedule. The move impacts the defensive rotation and the team's ability to maintain competitive balance during the regular season.

The active roster spot remains fluid, meaning fans should watch for the official inactive list released shortly before kickoff at Acrisure Stadium. The addition of a new player to the rotation will likely change the defensive snap counts for the team.

The takeaway

Injuries often provide unexpected opportunities for rookies to prove their value on the field. Adapting to these roster changes is a standard requirement for maintaining a competitive edge throughout the season.