Steelers Considering Trading One of Their Star Pass Rushers

Potential deals could send Watt, Highsmith, or Herbig to Chiefs, Lions, or 49ers

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:35am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the chaotic motion and colliding forces of a football pass rush, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the team colors of the Steelers, Chiefs, Lions, and 49ers.A potential Steelers trade could reshape the linebacker corps of several NFL contenders.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the most talented edge rusher groups in the NFL, featuring stars T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and rookie Nick Herbig. However, reports indicate the team may look to trade one of their starting-caliber pass rushers in the near future.

Why it matters

The Steelers' pass rush has been a key strength of their defense in recent years, so trading away one of their star edge rushers could significantly impact the team's defensive capabilities. A trade could also shake up the linebacker depth charts of potential suitor teams like the Chiefs, Lions, or 49ers.

The details

According to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac, the Steelers are considering trading one of their three starting-caliber edge rushers, with rookie Nick Herbig potentially being the odd man out. A trade could send Watt, Highsmith, or Herbig to teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, or San Francisco 49ers.

  • The Steelers are reportedly considering a trade involving one of their star pass rushers in the near future.

The players

T.J. Watt

A three-time First-team All-Pro and the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt is one of the league's premier edge rushers.

Alex Highsmith

A rising star who had 14.5 sacks in 2022, Highsmith has emerged as an elite pass rusher alongside Watt.

Nick Herbig

A rookie linebacker drafted in the 4th round in 2023, Herbig had an impressive debut season and is now reportedly the most likely trade candidate.

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What they’re saying

“I think the trade would involve someone ahead of him [Herbig].”

— Gerry Dulac, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Reporter

What’s next

The Steelers will likely continue to evaluate their options and gauge trade interest from other teams in the coming weeks and months.

The takeaway

The Steelers' deep and talented edge rusher group has become a potential trade chip, as the team may look to capitalize on their depth at the position and address other roster needs. A deal involving Watt, Highsmith, or Herbig could have significant ripple effects across the NFL.