Pittsburgh Steelers’ newest first-round pick, Derrick Harmon, should have been celebrating the biggest moment of his life-but instead, he’s mourning a devastating loss.
Just hours after being selected 21st overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Harmon’s beloved mother, Tiffany Saine, tragically passed away. The former Oregon standout rushed to her hospital bedside to share the emotional news that he had officially made it to the NFL… but not long after, she was gone.
“It was a little bittersweet,” Harmon told reporters on draft night. “She worked just as hard as me to get to this moment.”
A source of inspiration for Derrick
Saine had been on life support, courageously fighting yet another uphill battle after suffering a debilitating stroke during Harmon’s freshman year at Michigan State. That stroke left her paralyzed on her left side, and over the years, she endured no fewer than eight brain surgeries.
Despite the odds, she remained a constant source of strength and inspiration for her son-so much so that he used some of his NIL money to buy her a wheelchair-accessible van.
While many rookies basked in the spotlight of draft night celebrations, Harmon had one mission in mind: to tell his mother he made it. “She’s my inspiration,” he said. “Every day, every play-it’s all for her.”
Entire NFL mourns Harmon’s loss
The Steelers organization and the broader NFL community have since poured in their condolences, lifting up Harmon and his family during this unimaginably difficult time.
For Harmon, the journey to the league was never just about football-it was about honoring a warrior who fought every step alongside him.
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