In the trenches of college football, few players command attention like Derrick Harmon, Michigan State’s dominant defensive tackle. Standing at an imposing 6’5″, 320 pounds, Harmon has developed into one of the Big Ten’s most reliable interior defenders. With NFL scouts taking notice of his strength, technique, and run-stuffing ability, Harmon is positioning himself as a potential 2025 NFL Draft pick.
This explores every aspect of Harmon’s life and career:
- Early life, family background, and upbringing
- Michigan State career and statistics
- NFL Draft projection and scouting report
- Personal life (relationships, net worth, lifestyle)
- Brand, endorsements, and future outlook
Early Life & Background
Full Name & Age
- Full Name: Derrick Harmon
- Age: 21 years old (as of 2024)
- Birth Year: 2003
- Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
High School Career
- School: Loyola High School (Detroit, MI)
- Position: Defensive Tackle / Offensive Lineman
- Accolades:
- 3-star recruit (247Sports)
- All-State selection
- Helped lead Loyola to state playoffs
Recruitment & College Decision
- Offers: Michigan State, Iowa, Cincinnati, Indiana
- Commitment: Chose Michigan State to stay close to home
- Reason: “I wanted to represent my state and build something special here.”
Physical Attributes & Playing Style
- Height: 6’5″
- Weight: 320 lbs
- Position: Defensive Tackle (3-tech/Nose)
- Jersey Number: #93 (Michigan State)
Playing Style Breakdown
✅ Elite run defender – clogs gaps with power
✅ Strong hand usage – sheds blocks effectively
✅ High football IQ – understands blocking schemes
✅ Durability – rarely misses games
NFL Comparison: Akiem Hicks (former Bears DT)
College Career & Stats
Freshman Season (2022)
- Role: Rotational player
- Stats:
- 15 tackles
- 1.5 TFLs
- 0.5 sacks
Breakout Sophomore Season (2023)
- Role: Starting defensive tackle
- Stats:
- 40 tackles
- 5.0 TFLs
- 3.0 sacks
- 1 forced fumble
2024 Season (Junior Year) – NFL Draft Preview
- Projected Role: Anchor of MSU’s defensive line
- Early 2024 Stats (through 4 games):
- 12 tackles
- 2.0 TFLs
- 1.0 sack
Career Stats (Through 2023)
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 55+ |
| Tackles for Loss | 6.5+ |
| Sacks | 3.5+ |
| Forced Fumbles | 1+ |
NFL Draft Projection & Scouting Report
2025 NFL Draft Outlook
- Projected Round: 3rd-5th Round
- Potential Fits:
- Pittsburgh Steelers (need run-stuffing DT)
- Las Vegas Raiders (interior defensive line depth)
- Green Bay Packers (developmental lineman)
Strengths
✅ Powerful anchor vs. double teams
✅ Strong lower body to hold ground
✅ Experienced in multiple defensive schemes
Areas for Improvement
⚠️ Limited pass-rush moves
⚠️ Needs to improve quickness off the snap
⚠️ Conditioning for NFL-level snaps
Personal Life: Family, Relationships & Lifestyle
Family Background
- Parents: Names not publicly disclosed (keeps family private)
- Siblings: No confirmed brothers or sisters
Girlfriend & Relationship Status
- Single (no public girlfriend as of 2024)
- Focused on football career
Net Worth (2024 Estimate)
- 100K−300K (NIL deals, university stipends)
- Future NFL Earnings Potential: 1.5M−4M (mid-round contract)
House & Car
- Lives in Michigan State team housing
- Spotted driving a Chevrolet Tahoe (MSU parking lot sightings)
Brand & Endorsements
- NIL Deals:
- Michigan State NIL collective partnerships
- Local Detroit apparel brand
- Social Media Following:
- 15K+ Instagram followers (@DerrickHarmon_)
- Growing presence as MSU’s defensive leader
FAQs About Derrick Harmon
1. How tall is Derrick Harmon?
- 6’5″ (320 lbs)
2. What’s his 40-yard dash time?
- Estimated 5.2-5.3 seconds (good for his size)
3. Will he declare for the 2025 NFL Draft?
- Likely, but could return if he wants to improve stock
4. What’s his best NFL fit?
- Run-heavy teams needing a space-eater (Steelers, Titans)
5. What’s his biggest weakness?
- Pass-rush consistency
Conclusion: Future NFL Run-Stopper?
Derrick Harmon may not be a flashy pass-rusher, but his size, strength, and football IQ make him a valuable mid-round NFL prospect. If he improves his quickness and conditioning, he could become a long-time rotational DT at the next level.
Will he be Michigan State’s next successful NFL defensive lineman? His development in 2024 will tell the story.
Follow Derrick Harmon’s Journey
- Twitter: [@DerrickHarmon_]
- Instagram: [@DerrickHarmon_]
Do you think Harmon will be a Day 2 or Day 3 pick? Comment below!