Steelers' Nick Herbig Earns Starting Role, Extension Looms

Third-year linebacker has outgrown 'depth piece' label after standout 2025 season.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:51am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have a crowded outside linebacker room, but third-year pro Nick Herbig has emerged as a standout, earning a starting role after a highly efficient 2025 campaign. With T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith remaining the faces of the franchise, Herbig has proven himself worthy of a contract extension.

Why it matters

The Steelers have a deep and talented linebacker corps, but Herbig's rise to a starting role highlights the team's ability to develop young talent and maintain a strong defensive identity even as veteran stars age or move on.

The details

Following a 2025 season defined by historic per-snap efficiency, the Steelers have decided to elevate Nick Herbig to a starting outside linebacker role, solidifying the team's linebacker depth chart behind stars T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.

  • Herbig had a standout 2025 campaign for the Steelers.

The players

Nick Herbig

A third-year outside linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers who has earned a starting role after a breakout 2025 season.

T.J. Watt

A star outside linebacker and the face of the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense.

Alex Highsmith

Another star outside linebacker and key part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive core.

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What they’re saying

“Nick Herbig has proven himself to be a valuable piece of our defense. We're excited to see him take on an increased role and continue to develop as a player.”

— Mike Tomlin, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

What’s next

The Steelers are expected to work on a contract extension for Herbig in the coming months, locking up the young linebacker as a key part of their defensive future.

The takeaway

The Steelers' ability to develop young talent like Herbig is a testament to their scouting and coaching, allowing them to maintain a strong defense even as veteran stars depart or age.