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Steelers Rookie Moved by Fans’ Passion Despite Preseason Loss

Fans during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)

PITTSBURGH (CafeX) — Final score read 17-14 for the Buccaneers, but for first-round rookie Derrick Harmon, it wasn’t the loss that lingered — it was the roar.

From the first snap to the final whistle, Steelers Nation brought the noise, treating an August afternoon like playoff weather. Harmon — just weeks into wearing black and gold — admitted afterward that only one thing stayed with him longer than the sting of defeat: the fans.

“you could feel them,” Harmon said quietly in the locker room, tone tinged with awe. “even in preseason, even when we were behind, they stayed loud. that energy… it hits different.”

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Though Harmon’s stat line was still unwritten, his presence was felt. Cam Heyward, seeing the rookie’s emotion, offered a knowing nod: “that’s pittsburgh — they will love you when you earn it, even when you’re learning. derrick already knows what that means.”

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)

For Derrick Harmon, the scoreboard will fade — but the sound of those cheers won’t. In Pittsburgh, even preseason is a stage, and sometimes, the noise of the stands becomes the real highlight.

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Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."