Just hours after being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Derrick Harmon’s mother, Tiffany Saine, passed away, according to multiple reports.
At a press conference following his selection, Harmon shared that his mother was on life support. He said he was planning to visit her to share the exciting news, People reported.
“It was bittersweet because she worked just as hard as I did to reach this moment,” Harmon said. “It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m incredibly excited.”
However, shortly after Harmon’s hospital visit, Saine passed away, The Oregonian reported.
According to a video posted by ESPN, Saine had suffered a stroke during Harmon’s freshman year at Michigan State, leaving her hospitalized and partially paralyzed on her left side.
Harmon, now 21, wrestled with the decision to either remain at Michigan State to stay closer to his mother or transfer to Oregon. In a heartfelt conversation, Saine encouraged him to make a decision for himself, reminding him that every choice he had made so far was for her.
“She’s the reason I’m here,” Harmon said. “She did everything to help me get to this point. I love you, mom. Everything I do is for you. I’m forever grateful.”
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