Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt could face less attention from opponents in the upcoming season due to the emergence of teammates Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith, according to beat writer Mark Kaboly.
Kaboly, speaking on 93.7 The Fan, pointed to Herbig's recent contract extension and Highsmith's consistent play as factors that may force defenses to account for multiple pass rushers.
"You have to give those guys almost as much attention as T.J.," Kaboly said. He added that the new defensive staff under coordinator Patrick Graham plans to place Watt in improved situations.
Watt recorded 115 career sacks over nine seasons but managed only seven in 2025 after missing three games. He turns 32 in October.
The Steelers also hold big plans for Herbig in 2026, per insider Gerry Dulac.
