Steelers beat writer downplays Highsmith trade; analyst pushes for Herbig playing time

Amid recent reports of trade interest in Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo says a Highsmith deal is unlikely without an 'outrageous offer.' Analyst Gregg Rosenthal urges trading one to boost Herbig's snaps, listing potential partners.

Following insider buzz that the Steelers would field calls on edge rushers Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig ahead of the NFL Draft, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ray Fittipaldo dismissed a Highsmith trade in his weekly chat: “No. The Steelers are not going to do that. The only way that happens is if they’re bowled over by an outrageous offer, and I don’t expect that.”

On the NFL Daily podcast, Gregg Rosenthal advocated moving Highsmith or another to unlock Herbig, calling him 'one of the best pure pass rushers in the league' who's underutilized. Potential trade partners: Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore Ravens, New Orleans Saints, and Miami Dolphins.

Pittsburgh's pass-rush depth—T.J. Watt, Highsmith, Herbig, and Jack Sawyer—supports stability, though GM Omar Khan's deal-making history leaves room for draft-week moves.

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Photorealistic illustration of Steelers LB Nick Herbig contemplating trade rumors to the 49ers amid draft pick speculation.
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Analysts speculate on Nick Herbig's future with Steelers

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Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Nick Herbig enters the final year of his contract amid trade speculation. FOX Sports analyst Ralph Vacchiano proposed sending him to the San Francisco 49ers for draft picks, while beat writers predict he may depart after 2026. Post-Gazette reporters offered differing views on potential deals involving the team's edge rushers.

Building on recent speculation about Nick Herbig's future, Pittsburgh Steelers officials are set to consider trade inquiries for outside linebackers Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig ahead of the NFL draft. Yahoo Sports insider Charles Robinson reports their names are circulating in front offices, with Highsmith seen as the more likely candidate to move. A high-level personnel executive told Robinson, 'I think they will trade one of them.'

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Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Nick Herbig, a quality rotational player, faces questions about his long-term commitment during 2025 exit meetings. Stuck behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, he remains productive but enters free agency in 2027 without an extension. The team seeks to retain him amid recent playoff struggles and coaching changes.

New Pittsburgh Steelers coordinators shared their visions for key players and schemes during Friday's pre-draft media sessions at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham praised T.J. Watt and outlined a flexible defense, while offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio highlighted the tight end group. Special teams coordinator Danny Crossman expressed hope for draft help on returns.

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Following his announced pre-draft visit to Pittsburgh, Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard received high praise from Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo as a Day 2 draft fit, particularly in the slot role complementing the team's outside receivers.

The Pittsburgh Steelers addressed several needs in free agency but left gaps at left guard, left tackle and safety heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. Analysts offer varied predictions for the team's 21st overall selection, from offensive tackle to safety. Opinions differ on using a high pick on interior linemen.

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Former Pittsburgh Steelers player James Harrison expressed excitement about the current team, comparing it to the squad when Ben Roethlisberger was drafted. He highlighted similarities in their run-heavy approach on his Deebo and Joe podcast. Harrison pointed to recent additions like Michael Pittman Jr. as key hints.

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