Steelers’ Nick Herbig Is Thankful TJ Watt Skipped OTAs: “Great To Get Some Reps”

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Nick Herbig in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The 22-year-old linebacker from Wisconsin didn't get much playing time during his rookie season, but when he did, he made a significant impact, giving Steelers fans hope about his potential in Pittsburgh.

In his rookie season, Herbig was part of a crowded and talented linebacker room. He appeared in all 17 games without any starts, playing 191 defensive snaps during the regular season. Despite limited playing time, Herbig made his presence felt with three sacks, 27 combined tackles, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and five tackles for loss.

With Steelers star TJ Watt skipping Organized Team Activities, Herbig has taken full advantage of the extra reps. While the Steelers have a strong defense, they are not getting any younger. Watt even mentioned this offseason that he is starting to feel old for the first time in his career. The Steelers hope Herbig can help fill the void when Watt eventually retires, though fans hope that day is far away.

Herbig spoke with Steelers insider Mark Kaboly of The Athletic, expressing his gratitude for the extra opportunities created by Watt's absence from OTAs.

“I look at this like a chance to get better and be able to go against a guy like Broderick [Jones],” Herbig said. “You have to take full advantage of opportunities like these. You love when TJ is here because he is a great player and role model for us, but it is great to get some reps with the ones. When you have a guy of his caliber around every day, it’s kind of hard not to ask questions... He naturally does just give you pointers. You miss him, but I will take what I can get. You never know what is going to happen or when coach is going to call your number."

The 2024 offseason has provided Herbig with the opportunity to compete against the starters in practice. He emphasized the importance of getting reps against Broderick Jones, which has been crucial for his development. When asked about the lack of competition added at his position, Herbig responded confidently, focusing on making the most of his current opportunities.

"I don’t pay attention to that. I come in and work, and whatever happens, happens. What I worry about is getting 1 percent better, and if I do that, I will be fine. I have to get better as a whole, get a better football IQ, more physical, faster, stronger, smarter.”

Herbig answered the question with the poise of a veteran. His goal is clear: to improve with each and every practice. Expectations for him in the 2024 season are high, and Steelers fans hope he can continue to make impactful plays when given the chance.

Steelers' Nick Herbig Helped Lead Pittsburgh To Win Over Seattle

In the 2023 season, Herbig made a game-changing play when he strip-sacked Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith. With seven minutes left in the fourth quarter and the Seahawks driving to tie the game, Herbig's strip sack preserved the Steelers' seven-point lead. This play was crucial for the Steelers' playoff hopes, as the game was a must-win. 

Remarkably, Herbig made this play on just his second snap of the game, which also turned out to be his last snap of the game. The Steelers went on to win, and without that strip sack, the outcome could have been very different, possibly ending in a loss.

That play highlights what Herbig can achieve, even with limited opportunities. As he aims for a bigger role in 2024, his future in Pittsburgh looks very promising. While having Watt around is undoubtedly beneficial for learning, Herbig is relishing every second of Watt's absence, making the most of his increased reps and responsibility.

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