Pittsburgh, PA – July 15, 2025 — When the Pittsburgh Steelers signed linebacker Malik Harrison to a 2-year, $10 million deal this offseason, many fans saw it as a quiet but smart move. But for Harrison, the deal meant more than a fresh contract — it was a fresh start.
After spending four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, Harrison arrived in Pittsburgh with more than tackles and tape — he brought scars, both mental and emotional, from a locker room where he says he never felt accepted.
"I was disrespected by John Harbaugh, and Lamar Jackson didn’t treat me like a teammate," Harrison said candidly. "Other guys stayed away from me. But here in Pittsburgh — I finally feel like I belong."
A third-round pick in 2020 out of Ohio State, Harrison entered the NFL with promise but often found himself shuffled between roles in Baltimore’s defense. Despite flashes of production, he never fully cracked the starting lineup and was often used in rotational or special teams duties.
What wasn’t seen on the stat sheet, according to Harrison, was a growing sense of isolation. He claims communication from coaches was inconsistent and support from teammates was even scarcer. For a young linebacker trying to grow, it became a silent struggle.
Now 26, Harrison has found new footing in Pittsburgh. The Steelers’ culture — built on toughness, tradition, and transparency — has been a breath of fresh air. Inside linebacker coach Aaron Curry praised Harrison’s camp performance, calling him “hungry, vocal, and locked in.”
In a defense led by T.J. Watt and anchored by veterans like Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb, Harrison isn’t expected to be the star — but that may be exactly what he needs. Quiet confidence and chip-on-the-shoulder energy fit well in black and gold.
"I’m not here to talk anymore," Harrison added. "I’m here to prove I should’ve never been overlooked."
From the shadows of Baltimore to the heart of Pittsburgh’s defense, Malik Harrison’s story is no longer one of rejection — it’s one of redemption.
