The Pittsburgh Steelers got some unfortunate news during their second preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Third-year player Nick Herbig has left the contest with an injury, according to Steelers insider Mark Kaboly. This is not good news for the Steelers fan base to see. Injuries are always awful, but they sting even worse in the preseason.
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Steelers outside linebacker Nick Herbig raises his arms in the air during a training camp practice in Latrobe, PA.
Herbig, who has been one of the most talked-about young players on the roster, is expected to have a breakout season after showing flashes of dominance as a rookie and then once again in his second season. Herbig has totaled 8.5 sacks in just two seasons with the Steelers, while also proving to be a turnover creator with six forced fumbles. What makes his production even more impressive is that he’s done it with limited opportunities in one of the deepest linebacker rooms in the league.
The fear, of course, is that this injury may force Herbig to miss games in the regular season. His quick burst off the edge and ability to disrupt quarterbacks have made him a rising star for Pittsburgh’s defense. Kaboly's analysis provided more answers about the Herbig injury. It appears it was a hamstring injury for Herbig.
"Herbig with a hamstring injury," Kaboly said. "Soft tissue injury again for a Steeler."
The Steelers getting hit with soft tissue injuries has been very frustrating for the fan base, and certainly even more so for the players. Steelers fans will continue to hope that Herbig’s soft tissue injury doesn’t keep him out long. The Steelers typically won’t rush any player back from a soft tissue injury, as it carries major potential for re-injury.
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Steelers' Nick Herbig speaks to the media after a preseason game.
It hasn’t been stated yet, but Herbig could miss some extended time. The team will likely take a cautious approach and closely monitor his recovery before deciding on a return timeline. Pittsburgh knows the importance of maintaining depth at outside linebacker, especially with the demanding schedule ahead. Losing Herbig for multiple weeks would not only test the team’s rotation but also force younger players into bigger roles.
Steelers Rookie Jack Sawyer Could See Greater Chances With Injury news
The Steelers drafted Jack Sawyer in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The Ohio State product slipped further than expected, but he was a standout in college and played a key role in helping the Buckeyes win a national championship.
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Steelers outside linebacker Jack Sawyer (33) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Now, he joins the Steelers buried on a deep depth chart. However, with Herbig sidelined and Alex Highsmith also battling through a groin injury, an opportunity could open for Sawyer or other young pass rushers to step up. Highsmith is also dealing with a soft injury issue. Those are never easy to predict when an injured player could return.
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