Malik Harrison, a former linebacker for Ohio State football, joins the Steelers in the NFL.
In the world of college football, certain players leave an indelible mark on their teams and the entire program’s history. Malik Harrison, a former linebacker for Ohio State, is one of those players. Known for his incredible athleticism, toughness, and leadership, Harrison’s time at Ohio State was a highlight in the team’s defense, and his name became synonymous with hard-hitting, effective football.
Now, as Malik Harrison transitions to the NFL, he continues to make waves, this time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, an iconic franchise known for its tough defense and championship pedigree. Harrison’s move to the NFL represents the culmination of years of hard work and development, both on and off the field, and a fresh chapter in what promises to be a promising professional career.
The Rise of Malik Harrison at Ohio State
Malik Harrison’s journey to Ohio State was marked by hard work, determination, and a focus on constant improvement. Born and raised in the state of Ohio, Harrison’s connection to the Buckeyes was deep-rooted. As a standout high school athlete at Walnut Ridge High School in Columbus, Ohio, Harrison showed tremendous promise on the field. He was an explosive linebacker with impressive speed, strength, and the ability to make plays all over the field. His skill set immediately caught the attention of college scouts and recruiters.
In 2016, Harrison’s hard work paid off when he committed to Ohio State. His decision to join the Buckeyes was not only a dream come true but also a stepping stone to what would become an incredibly successful college career. At Ohio State, Harrison developed into one of the premier linebackers in college football. As a freshman, he played primarily on special teams, gaining valuable experience and learning from the upperclassmen ahead of him.
By his sophomore season, Harrison had earned a starting role at linebacker, and it didn’t take long for him to showcase his talents on a national stage. His ability to read plays, shed blocks, and make crucial tackles in key moments made him a critical part of the Buckeyes’ defense. Throughout his time at Ohio State, Harrison’s leadership skills were also evident, as he became a vocal presence on the field, rallying his teammates and demanding excellence.
One of the most memorable seasons of Harrison’s career came in 2019, when he became one of the most dominant linebackers in the Big Ten. He registered 75 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks, all while playing in one of the most competitive conferences in college football. He was instrumental in helping the Buckeyes reach the College Football Playoff, and his performance during the season earned him recognition from coaches, teammates, and scouts alike. His ability to diagnose plays, cover ground quickly, and make big tackles in crucial situations made him a standout player and one of the top linebackers in the country.
As Harrison’s college career progressed, his draft stock continued to rise, with analysts consistently ranking him among the top linebacker prospects for the 2020 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, athleticism, football IQ, and leadership made him a coveted player at the next level.
The Transition to the NFL
After declaring for the NFL Draft following his junior season in 2020, Malik Harrison’s dream of playing at the highest level was finally within reach. The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events in professional football, and for college players like Harrison, it’s the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the game.
Harrison was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the 98th overall pick. For a player who had made such an impact at Ohio State, being drafted into the NFL was the ultimate reward for his efforts. As a part of the Ravens, Harrison entered a defense that was already known for being one of the most aggressive and talented in the league. He joined a talented linebacker corps that included veterans like Patrick Queen, who had established himself as a key contributor for the Ravens. Harrison’s athleticism, versatility, and ability to cover ground quickly made him a natural fit for the Ravens’ defense.
As a rookie in 2020, Harrison had the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business while also getting meaningful playing time. The NFL is known for its speed and physicality, but Harrison quickly adjusted, using his college experience to help him rise to the occasion. His first few seasons were marked by growth and development, and he made an impact both as a run defender and in pass coverage. Harrison’s ability to read offenses, make tackles, and be a disruptive force in the backfield was on full display, and he earned the trust of his coaching staff and teammates.
However, despite being drafted by the Ravens, Harrison’s time with the team would be relatively short. The Ravens have consistently been a playoff-caliber team, and roster turnover and changes in defensive strategies have led to the re-shaping of various positional groups. After a few seasons with Baltimore, Harrison’s journey took another turn when the Pittsburgh Steelers, another powerhouse team in the NFL, showed interest in acquiring his services.
Joining the Pittsburgh Steelers: A New Chapter
The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been known for their blue-collar mentality, hard-hitting defense, and storied history. The team’s defensive unit has been a driving force behind its success, and the Steelers’ commitment to building one of the most physical and punishing defenses in the league has made them a consistent contender for championships.
When Harrison joined the Steelers, it was seen as a perfect match. Known for their linebacker legacy—highlighted by Hall of Fame players like Jack Lambert, Jack Ham, and more recently, Ryan Shazier—the Steelers have always valued strong linebacker play. Harrison’s skill set aligns perfectly with Pittsburgh’s defensive philosophy. He brings both speed and physicality to a position that thrives on aggressiveness and tackling ability.
Harrison’s transition to Pittsburgh represents an exciting opportunity for the player. For a linebacker like Harrison, joining a team with such a storied defense offers a chance to thrive in an environment where expectations are high, and the standards for defensive performance are always elite. The Steelers have an established and respected defense, and Harrison’s experience as a starter in the NFL gives him a valuable skill set to contribute right away.
His versatility will be a key asset to the Steelers. Harrison has the ability to play multiple linebacker positions and can serve as a key run stopper or pass rusher depending on the situation. His time with the Ravens allowed him to learn the nuances of the NFL game, and now with the Steelers, he can apply those lessons to further refine his play. Harrison’s physicality and quickness make him a great fit for the Steelers’ scheme, which often utilizes linebackers to make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
What Malik Harrison Brings to the Steelers
- Leadership and Experience: As a former captain at Ohio State and a seasoned NFL linebacker, Harrison’s leadership skills will be invaluable to the Steelers. He understands what it takes to be successful at the highest level, and his experience will be vital to helping younger players adjust to the NFL’s demands. Harrison’s voice in the locker room and on the field will be crucial in creating a winning culture for the Steelers.
- Versatility and Athleticism: Harrison is known for his speed and ability to cover ground quickly. His range makes him an excellent asset in pass coverage and against the run. Whether it’s covering tight ends or tracking down running backs in the backfield, Harrison can play all three downs and make plays in a variety of situations.
- Toughness and Aggression: Like the Steelers’ linebacker corps of old, Harrison brings a level of physicality to the position that matches the team’s identity. His aggressive play style, combined with his instincts for reading offenses, will make him a key part of the Steelers’ defensive schemes. He’s not afraid to mix it up at the line of scrimmage or attack the quarterback when needed.
- Football IQ: Harrison’s football IQ, honed through years of experience in college and the NFL, gives him a distinct advantage. His ability to read plays and make quick decisions will be invaluable as the Steelers face some of the best offenses in the league.
The Future of Malik Harrison and the Pittsburgh Steelers
As Harrison continues to adapt to his new role with the Steelers, there is no doubt that he will play an integral part in the team’s defense. His leadership, experience, and physicality make him a natural fit for Pittsburgh’s hard-hitting, disciplined defense. The transition from the Ravens to the Steelers is an exciting one, and it offers Harrison the chance to continue his NFL career with a franchise that values toughness, hard work, and championship aspirations.
For Malik Harrison, his journey from Ohio State to the NFL and now to the Steelers represents the realization of a lifelong dream. His commitment to excellence, both as a player and a leader, will help define the next chapter of his career. With the Steelers’ strong defensive identity and his own unique skill set, Harrison has the potential to become a cornerstone player for the team, contributing to their quest for future championships while adding to his own growing legacy in the NFL.
