According to the insider, Highsmith’s name is circulating in front offices, though any trade would likely be a one-for-one scenario with Herbig in mind. The sense is that Highsmith is the likeliest Steelers edge to be moved, while Herbig remains behind Watt and Highsmith as a potential breakout option.
Herbig has been productive while rotating with Watt and Highsmith, and at 24 he deserves a larger role. The Steelers are weighing whether to accelerate his development by granting him more starting opportunities, especially if a deal opens up a path on the edge.
The organization enters the draft with substantial leverage, holding 12 total picks. The influx of draft capital, combined with a need to balance immediate-win potential and long-term development, gives Pittsburgh significant negotiation power in any trade discussions.
The Steelers’ offseason has signaled a win-now mindset, including moves that added capital and signaling a readiness to contend. With the draft looming and the quarterback situation still unsettled, the edge-rushing decision could define how Pittsburgh competes in the near term and how it accelerates Herbig’s development.
Bottom line: as the draft nears, Pittsburgh could field calls on Highsmith, potentially paving the way for Herbig to step into a bigger role unless the team chooses to hold steady on the edge.
