PITTSBURGH — Tragedy struck the Pittsburgh Steelers shortly after the NFL draft on Thursday when Tiffany Saine, the mother of first-round pick Derrick Harmon, passed away just hours following her son’s selection at the 21st overall spot. Saine, who had been battling the aftermath of a stroke that left her paralyzed on her left side since 2022, was on life support in a Detroit hospital while Harmon celebrated his milestone surrounded by family.
The Steelers organization expressed their condolences through a heartfelt statement from President Art Rooney II. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Tiffany Saine,” Rooney said. “While we are thrilled to welcome Derrick to the team, our hearts are heavy as we share in his grief. We are here to support him and his family during this challenging time.”
Harmon, who had been informed of his NFL future amidst the turmoil, left his draft party to be by his mother’s side. The moment was bittersweet, he said, acknowledging the duality of his achievements and his mother’s serious condition. “It was a little bittersweet,” Harmon explained. “My mom wasn’t with me to share this moment, and she worked just as hard as I did to get here.”
In the months leading up to the draft, Harmon took significant steps to support his mother, demonstrating their strong bond. Ahead of the Rose Bowl in December, he used part of his NIL earnings to purchase a wheelchair-accessible van for her. This thoughtful gesture reflected his commitment to family, as he played for Michigan State to remain close to her before transferring to Oregon for his senior season.
Reflecting on his mother’s resilience, Harmon noted her determination and strength following multiple brain surgeries prior to the stroke. “After all those brain surgeries, she didn’t give up,” he said. “She still took me to practice and showed up for work. I always thought to myself, why can’t I keep going if she can?”
Harmon’s journey has been shaped by these experiences, providing him with the fortitude he needed to reach his goals. As he navigates this new chapter, he draws inspiration from his mother’s enduring spirit, hoping to bring her legacy with him to the NFL.
As fans rally around Harmon during this difficult time, the Steelers community is prepared to extend their support. From the organization to the fans, collective prayers and thoughts are being directed toward the Harmon family as they grapple with this profound loss. The upcoming season for Derrick Harmon will not just be about football; it will also serve as a tribute to his mother’s remarkable fight and their unbreakable bond.