Nick Herbig deal raises obvious questions about the future of T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Steelers have signed linebacker Nick Herbig, their 2023 fourth-round pick, to a four-year, $100 million extension, marking the first time a backup has received such a lucrative deal.
- This contract suggests Herbig may move into a starting role, potentially impacting the roles of current pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
- T.J. Watt, a 2017 first-round pick, has a three-year, $123 million extension with a $41 million annual salary, while Alex Highsmith, a 2020 third-round pick, signed a four-year, $68 million extension with a $17 million annual salary.
- The Steelers could retain all three linebackers or consider trading Watt or Highsmith to manage salary cap implications, as trading either would reduce guaranteed payments but incur cap charges in subsequent years.
- It is likely that other teams have shown interest in Watt and Highsmith, as the Steelers explore their options amid these significant contract developments.