Derrick Harmon is an imposing defensive lineman from Oregon, standing at 6’5″ and weighing 310 pounds. His frame is well-proportioned, with a thick build and long arms that are ideal for his position. Harmon’s size and length give him an excellent foundation for success at the NFL level, allowing him to match up well against professional offensive linemen.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Derrick Harmon, Oregon
College Career
Harmon’s college journey is a testament to his development and potential. He began his career at Michigan State, where he played for three seasons (2021-2023). During his time with the Spartans, Harmon showed steady improvement, accumulating 71 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks over 28 games.
The turning point in Harmon’s career came when he transferred to Oregon for the 2024 season. At Oregon, Harmon’s potential was fully realized as he became a dominant force on the Ducks’ defensive line. In his lone season with Oregon, Harmon recorded impressive statistics: 45 total tackles (27 solo), 5 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 pass deflections. His performance was crucial in Oregon’s successful 13-1 season and Big Ten title run.
Strengths
Run Defense: Harmon excels as a run defender, utilizing his impressive upper body strength to control blocks and maintain gap integrity. He demonstrates good technique, engaging blockers with a wide base and proper pad level, which allows him to hold his ground against double teams and combo blocks.
Pass Rush: While not primarily known as a sack specialist, Harmon has shown the ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt passing plays. He recorded 39 quarterback hurries in his season at Oregon, showcasing his ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks. Harmon has developed effective pass-rush moves, including a nice rip move and a solid arm-over technique.
Versatility: Harmon’s skill set allows him to play in various defensive schemes. He can be effective in both odd and even fronts, providing valuable flexibility for NFL defenses. His ability to play up and down the line makes him a versatile asset for any team that drafts him.
Athleticism: Despite his size, Harmon demonstrated impressive athleticism at the NFL Combine. He ran the 40-yard dash in under 5 seconds twice (4.97 and 4.95 seconds), which was the fourth-best time among defensive linemen. This combination of size and speed is rare and highly valued in the NFL.
Weaknesses
Hand Technique: Harmon has a tendency to drop his hands as a pass rusher, which can allow offensive linemen to get into his chest and control him. Improving his hand placement and consistency will be crucial for his success at the next level.
Hip Flexibility: Scouts have noted that Harmon’s hips are somewhat tight, which can limit his ability to bend and corner when working from wider alignments. This lack of flexibility may impact his effectiveness in certain pass-rushing situations.
Finishing Ability: While Harmon is adept at creating pressure, his sack numbers (5 in his final season) suggest he could improve in finishing plays. Developing his closing speed and tackling technique could help him convert more pressures into sacks.
NFL Projection
Derrick Harmon projects as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive line. Harmon’s versatility to play in multiple fronts and his ability to be effective against both the run and pass will appeal to many NFL defensive coordinators.
Harmon’s physical attributes and performance have drawn comparisons to established NFL players. His measurements and athletic testing results are similar to those of Chris Jones, the three-time Super Bowl champion defensive tackle of the Kansas City Chiefs. This comparison bodes well for Harmon’s potential impact at the professional level.
While Harmon may not be an elite sack producer immediately, he has the tools to be a disruptive force in the NFL. His ability to create “traffic jams” inside as a two-gapper or use his power to penetrate the backfield makes him a valuable asset in any defensive scheme. Harmon’s potential to be part of a “swarm unit” that consistently pressures quarterbacks will be highly valued by NFL teams.
Conclusion
Derrick Harmon enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the top interior defensive line prospects. His impressive physical tools, versatility, and production at the highest level of college football make him a likely first-round selection. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in his hand technique and finishing ability, Harmon’s upside is significant.
NFL teams will be drawn to Harmon’s potential to be an immediate contributor against the run while developing into a more consistent pass-rushing threat. His combination of size, strength, and surprising athleticism gives him a high ceiling as a professional player. With proper coaching and development, Derrick Harmon has the potential to become a cornerstone defensive lineman in the NFL for years to come.
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