As the Pittsburgh Steelers enter the offseason, the team faces a critical decision regarding the future of linebacker Nick Herbig. Entering a contract year without a clear starting role, the Steelers must decide whether to push for an extension, open a starting spot through possible trades, or allow Herbig to complete his current contract. This situation arises amid a crowded linebacker room led by established players like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Challenges and Options for Herbig’s Role with the Team
Ray Fittipaldo highlighted the complexity of the Steelers’ dilemma, stating,
“They have to figure that out.”
He added,
“When you hit on a guy like Herbig in the draft you want to sign him to a second contract, but it’s going to be hard for him to start unless there are injuries to Watt or Highsmith. Maybe they try to make a deal or maybe they just let him play out his contract and see where things stand next year at this time.”
Herbig’s path to a starting position depends heavily on the health and tenure of Watt and Highsmith, as well as the team’s willingness to negotiate.
Impact of New Coaching Staff on Herbig’s Future
The arrival of new head coach Mike McCarthy and his staff has added uncertainty to Herbig’s outlook. Although McCarthy has spoken publicly on several matters since his hiring, he has yet to comment specifically on Herbig’s role. The Steelers’ general manager Omar Khan is expected to address these questions during the upcoming NFL Combine press sessions, which may clarify the organization’s plans.
Herbig’s Development and On-Field Contributions
The Steelers drafted Nick Herbig in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting him primarily to bolster depth behind Watt and Highsmith. Throughout his first two seasons, the team experimented with ways to increase his playing time, including deploying a three-outside-linebacker (3-OLB) scheme. Injuries limited these opportunities, though Herbig did earn starts due to such circumstances.
Over his three-year tenure, Herbig has played 1,216 snaps, accruing 79 tackles with 23 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, 9 forced fumbles, 4 recoveries, 1 interception, and 3 passes defensed. He also scored a defensive touchdown on a fumble recovery and nearly returned another interception for a touchdown. Last season alone, on 610 snaps, his stats included 30 tackles, 13 for loss, 7.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and a defensive touchdown.
Visual Highlights of Herbig’s Defensive Plays
Circle this almost pick-6 by Herbig as well #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/X9Ku0yDW9M
– @Steelersdepot, December 28, 2025
Another look at Herbig pick off Heyward bat #Steelers pic.twitter.com/2RQ516kpdU
– @Steelersdepot, September 14, 2025
Team Depth Creates Both Opportunity and Competition
Alongside Watt, Highsmith, and Herbig, the Steelers added Jack Sawyer in the 2025 draft to strengthen their pass rush. Sawyer continues to develop his abilities while contributing reliably. This abundance of talented pass rushers presents a challenging yet enviable situation — the team must determine how to best utilize these players, manage contracts, and balance future planning.
Strategic Questions About Herbig’s Starting Prospects
The Steelers face fundamental questions regarding the timeline for Herbig’s promotion to starter. With Watt turning 32 this season and Highsmith contracted for two more years, Herbig may need to exercise patience. However, the prospect of waiting years for a starting role may be unappealing unless a team-friendly contract is negotiated. The organization must weigh these factors carefully to ensure they retain talent while maintaining roster balance.
Circle this almost pick-6 by Herbig as well #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/X9Ku0yDW9M
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) December 28, 2025
Circle this almost pick-6 by Herbig as well #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/X9Ku0yDW9M
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) December 28, 2025
Another look at Herbig pick off Heyward bat #Steelers pic.twitter.com/2RQ516kpdU
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) September 14, 2025
