Derrick Harmon

Derrick Harmon, Oregon, DT, 6044, 313, rJr.

Draft Profile

Frankly: (To Be Added)

Overview

Harmon projects as a defensive tackle with legitimate NFL starter potential, showcasing a rare combination of power and explosiveness refined through his transfer to Oregon. His ability to consistently win one-on-one matchups—most notably against Ohio State's interior linemen during the College Football Playoff—demonstrates his ceiling when physical tools and technique align. Harmon thrives as a 3-technique in attacking fronts where his quick first step allows him to disrupt plays at the mesh point. While teams running zone schemes occasionally exploited his aggressive tendencies with cutbacks, his overall ability to penetrate gaps highlights his disruptive potential. Harmon's snap-to-snap intensity occasionally wavers, but his raw talent and development arc cannot be ignored. Teams like the Browns, Ravens, or Jets, which emphasize aggressive interior defenders, would be ideal fits for maximizing Harmon’s strengths while refining his technical consistency. Though immediate Pro Bowl impact may be ambitious, Harmon has shown enough on tape to project as a quality starter capable of ascending to high-end production with continued development.

Background

The journey from Loyola High School in Detroit to NFL-ready prospect encapsulates Harmon's resilience and growth. After three seasons at Michigan State, he transferred to Oregon, where he blossomed into a cornerstone player for the Ducks’ dominant defensive front. Harmon's breakout season included 5 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 39 quarterback hurries, underlining his ability to wreak havoc in opposing backfields. His rise culminated in standout performances against top-tier opponents, solidifying his status as a top-50 prospect. Harmon’s unique blend of first-step explosiveness and heavy-handed technique allowed him to thrive despite constant double teams, proving his scheme versatility and adaptability against elite competition.

Scouting Report

Pros: Harmon leverages powerful hands and core strength to dominate at the point of attack, often winning battles against reach blocks and drive attempts. His length and devastating rip move offer three-down potential, as evidenced by his success against veteran offensive lines like UCLA’s. Harmon excels in spatial awareness and play recognition, diagnosing plays pre-snap to beat blockers to key spots and disrupt timing. His bull rush consistently collapses pockets, highlighted by standout performances against Washington’s passing attack in the Pac-12 title game. Against zone schemes, his quick processing and explosive burst allow him to penetrate gaps effectively, while his ability to anchor against combo blocks demonstrates versatility as both a penetrator and run defender.

Cons: While Harmon’s tackling is impactful, his reliance on arm tackles limits consistency; better lower-body mechanics are needed to secure stops. His aggressive pursuit of quarterbacks can occasionally lead to lapses in containment responsibilities, creating openings for scrambles or cutbacks. As a pass rusher, Harmon’s counter moves remain underdeveloped, resulting in stalled efforts when his initial move is neutralized. He occasionally plays too high off the snap, particularly late in games, allowing linemen to gain leverage. While his motor improved significantly during his time at Oregon, lingering inconsistencies from his Michigan State tenure are a minor concern.