Heartbreaking Loss: How the Steelers’ Selection Changed Harmon’s Life Forever After His Mother’s Passing

PITTSBURGH – Derrick Harmon, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first-round draft pick, faced a heartbreaking moment just as his NFL dreams were coming true. His mother, Tiffany Saine, passed away the same night he was selected at No. 21 in the NFL Draft.

Tiffany had been seriously ill since having a stroke in 2022, which left her paralyzed on one side. She was on life support while Derrick celebrated this milestone with his family in Detroit.

Steelers president Art Rooney II expressed the team’s condolences, noting the club’s support for Derrick during this difficult time. "Though we celebrate Derrick’s selection, we mourn the loss of his mother. Our thoughts are with him and his family," Rooney said.

Derrick shared his mixed feelings about the moment, saying it felt "bittersweet." He was thrilled to join the NFL, but his mother was fighting for her life in the hospital. Recognizing her role in his journey, he reflected on how hard she worked alongside him to reach this point.

Derrick has shown his love for Tiffany through actions. Before the Rose Bowl, he used some of his NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) earnings to buy her a wheelchair-accessible van. After playing three years at Michigan State, he chose to transfer to Oregon for his senior year to stay close to her.

Through it all, Derrick learned resilience from Tiffany. He admired her strength as she faced multiple brain surgeries before her stroke. "She never gave up. She continued to take me to practice and work," he said. Her fight inspired him, making him ask, "If she can keep going after all that, why can’t I?"

Harmon’s story goes beyond sports. It sheds light on the bonds between parents and children, especially during tough times. Fans and teammates alike rally around Derrick, showcasing the strength of community support in moments of loss and celebration.

For a deeper dive into the emotional impacts of sports on families, visit ESPN and explore resources from the National Institute of Mental Health on coping with grief.

Check out this related article: Tragic Loss: Steelers’ First-Round Pick Derrick Harmon Mourns His Mother’s Passing Shortly After NFL Draft