Amidst the disappointment for the Pittsburgh Steelers that their first-round pick won’t be playing in the regular-season opener is that Derrick Harmon’s absence could open up opportunity for one of the Steelers’ other draft picks that had an eye-opening training camp and preseason.

Fifth-round pick Yahya Black popped in practices and preseason games enough that he earned not only a roster spot but a place in the defensive line rotation as the season begins Sunday at the New York Jets.

And with Harmon out, that means additional snaps for the other defensive linemen who will be in uniform Sunday.

“They’re opportunities,” Black said of the playing time he’ll get in his NFL debut. “I’ve got to show a little bit of my skill set. I’m really just starting to work on my craft.”

The charismatic Black was asked if his standout camp and preseason gave him the confidence he can succeed once the “real” games start.

“I (already) had the confidence,” Black said. “I mean, I was brought in for a reason. The confidence is there; you can’t let it lack.”

While nothing is official — not the least of which the drama surrounding Cameron Heyward’s contract situation — the Steelers figure to play Isaiahh Loudermilk, Logan Lee, Daniel Ekuale and Black more than they would have if Harmon was available.

Listed at 6-foot-5, 336 pounds, Black showed almost-daily proficiency at batting down passes during camp. His reputation as a “run-stuffer” preceded his arrival in Pittsburgh, and Black had a two-sack game during the preseason finale at the Carolina Panthers.

A veteran of 50 college games at Iowa and three pro preseason games, is Black nervous to appear in a meaningful NFL game for the first time?

“To be honest with you, it’s probably just will come on game day,” Black said. “A little more butterflies (then). But right now, it’s just practice, getting things right.”

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)