Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Drops A Clear Hint About Nick Herbig’s Role For The 2024 Season

The Pittsburgh Steelers dropped their third straight preseason game, falling 24-17 to the Detroit Lions. While the loss adds to growing concerns about the Steelers' struggles in the 2024 preseason, there were some encouraging signs as quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields each led a touchdown drive. The offense showed more life early in the game, but as the contest wore on, the Lions capitalized on opportunities to secure the win.

Though losing all three preseason games is far from ideal, it’s important to remember that these games are more about growth than results. Steeler Nation is understandably frustrated, but there’s hope that the lessons learned during this rough stretch will help the team address key issues before the regular season kicks off. 

One of the bright spots in this game was the impressive performance of second-year linebacker Nick Herbig, who recorded two sacks early on and finished with three tackles. Herbig’s tenacity and playmaking ability stood out, making him a player to watch as the season approaches.

As fans speculate about where Herbig fits into a crowded linebacker corps, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin provided some insight into the young linebacker's role for the upcoming season. Tomlin’s comments suggest that Herbig is expected to make a meaningful impact in 2024, potentially carving out a significant role in what is already a deep and talented group.

"You know he’s behaving like a guy that’s had a lap around the track really," Tomlin said when speaking about Herbig. "We want to see significant growth in all of those second-year players and I think really he’s an example of that, but he’s not alone. We like what we have seen from guys like Spencer Anderson as well."

Tomlin didn’t hesitate to shout out another rising player on the Steelers' roster—second-year offensive lineman Spencer Anderson. Tomlin, along with the rest of the Steelers coaching staff, has been thoroughly impressed with both Anderson and Herbig throughout the offseason. 

Tomlin's confidence in these young players is evident, especially when it comes to Herbig. He made it clear that while Herbig might not be a starter, his role in the 2024 season will be significantly expanded. Tomlin is expecting a breakout year from Herbig, underscoring the high expectations he has for the young linebacker.

"He’s just taking a jump and he’s been there before. He’s finding his footing man. He wants to be impactful and obviously, we are going to find a role for a guy like that whether he’s quote-on-quote a starter or not. He has an opportunity to be significant and he has shown that not only in stadium but in the team development work."

Steelers' Nick Herbig Is A Game Wrecker In The Making

As a rookie, Herbig made an immediate impact with his splash plays, despite limited opportunities. Whenever he was called upon, Herbig capitalized, quickly catching the attention of both the Steelers coaching staff and the fanbase. The confidence in Herbig’s potential is sky-high, with many believing he has a bright future in the Steel City.

One of Herbig’s most memorable moments came during a critical game in the 2023 season against the Seattle Seahawks. In a high-stakes situation, Herbig broke through the offensive line and delivered a clutch strip-sack on Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, recovering the fumble himself. 

This game-changing play was pivotal in keeping the Steelers’ playoff hopes alive and showcased Herbig’s potential as a difference-maker. With Tomlin believing Herbig is poised for an even greater role in 2024, the young linebacker’s future in Pittsburgh looks incredibly promising. Steelers fans are excited to see what Herbig can do in the upcoming season.

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