Steelers' Financial Situation Provides Unique Opportunity For Nick Herbig

The Pittsburgh Steelers come into 2026 with a loaded edge rusher room. A positive problem to have, the Steelers now have to decide internally whether or not they want to commit to their current stars or invest in the future at the position. The Steelers have drafted very well in the area and find themselves with an issue of who to keep for the long term. A four-headed monster will not work as the Steelers cannot afford to pay a premium price for three of their four capable edge rushers. The Steelers head into the 2026 offseason with a potential shake-up in mind for the group, with a major contract extension looming. 

The Steelers' rising star, Nick Herbig, is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and the decision on whether to trade or re-sign him is a thought that is plaguing the organization. Herbig is coming off his best season as a pro. 

The young star put up great numbers, especially considering his snap count, with seven and a half sacks and three forced fumbles. Herbig plays with a high motor and uses his speed and his undersized frame to his advantage. Herbig played on only 60% of snaps, which is why his numbers are so impressive. Steelers insider Christopher Carter weighed in on Herbig's potential next move. 

"I would extend Herbig. I also think the Steelers can afford him. Omar Khan has left the Steelers with plenty of cap space in 2027-- when Herbig's deal would be due," Carter wrote. 

The Steelers would have the cap space available to re-sign Herbig, and it should be a no-brainer for the organization, which should continue to prioritize its young talent. The edge rusher continues to improve year after year, and with a real starting opportunity, could be a star. However, the crowded room could prevent him from getting the opportunity making it all the more difficult for the Steelers to address Herbig.

Steelers Need To Take A Long Look At The Outside Linebacker Position

There have been plenty of rumors surrounding all of the Steelers' stars at the edge position. Their franchise cornerstone, TJ Watt, has been rumored to be involved in trade talks. Based on Watt's contract, in 2026, he will have a cap hit of $42 million. 

This makes him one of the highest-paid non-QBs in the NFL. Watt's production last year slowed as he was injured for a solid chunk of the year with a punctured lung. However, before the injury, his play took a step back from his typical form. Watt recorded just seven sacks last year compared to 11.5 the season prior.

Watt's contract and decline in play may make him an attractive trade target for a contender, and would be the perfect excuse for the Steelers to invest in their younger edge rushers. However, the Steelers, if they were to trade Watt, need to make sure they're getting a proper return for the star. Watt still has a lot in the tank, but the Steelers being loaded at the position could be better served using the money elsewhere. 

The Steelers have another star in their locker room, and they have a choice to make. Alex Highsmith is coming off a dominant season where he posted nine and a half sacks. Highsmith is extremely effective in the run game, too, making him very valuable to the team. The edge rusher is on a 4-year, $68 million contract that keeps him with the team through the 2027 season. However, Highsmith's name has come up in trade talks, too. 

No matter what, the Steelers' decision on who to keep depends on their willingness to invest in their youth or maintain their veteran core. Herbig and now second-year player Jack Sawyer round out the young, exciting edge rushers. However, established stars in Watt and Highsmith make it a tough choice. The Steelers have the cap to re-sign Herbig and should make it a point of emphasis to invest in their homegrown talent and youth on their defense. 

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