Steelers Receive Mostly Positive News From Critical Players

The Pittsburgh Steelers had to deal with the injury bug all throughout camp, as numerous players had to miss significant time, from undrafted hopefuls, to key depth pieces, to locked-in starters. Pittsburgh is in the phase where it trims down the roster from 90 men to 53, and the severity of these injuries could be a factor in deciding what happens, as some players may have to be put on Injured Reserve (IR) to free up more spots for other players who deserve a place on the team. Luckily, one position of concern seems to be getting better quickly. 

Edge rusher Nick Herbig told reporters about how he has continued to receive treatment for an injury he suffered during the preseason. He is hopeful about his ability to play in the season opener. He has about two weeks to recover and prove that he is all healed up before gameday. 

However, Head Coach Mike Tomlin did not share that same optimism, as he declined to make any statement on his availability.

Even in an edge rusher room that is loaded with insane talent from top to bottom, Herbig plays a key role in this defense. His quick release off the line makes him a great asset, and it allows the starters to catch their breath on the sideline while he continues to torment quarterbacks. 5.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries as a backup is quite exceptional. He would likely be a starter on every other team but Pittsburgh. 

While there is some hope around Herbig's injury, there is no uncertainty around Alex Highsmith's recent groin injury. While speaking with reporters, he announced that he will be ready for the regular season for sure. 

Highsmith has had a very concerning history with groin injuries, so it would make sense if the Steelers wanted to play things carefully with the former third-round pick. However, they have shown that they are comfortable with letting players skip training camp and preseason games to make sure they feel great for the meaningful games. That is what they did with Highsmith, and it seems like it worked. Instead of taking it easy in September, he got to rest and recover throughout August, and now he is ready to go. 

It seems like the Steelers will have their normal four edge rushers all ready to go for Week 1. They will get the chance to torture their former quarterback in the pocket as Justin Fields starts his tenure with the New York Jets. Having Highsmith in the starting lineup and Herbig as the primary depth rusher will be huge, and Fields will likely not have a very fun day in his debut with his new team.

Steelers' Camp Hopefuls May Have Lost Their Chance

Eku Leota and DeMarvin Leal (now released) spent all of preseason trying to prove their worth as outside linebackers. They did well during the games, especially Leota. With a stacked edge rusher room, it seemed like their only chance of making the roster was if someone went on IR. Now that Highsmith is completely healthy and Herbig anticipates playing in Week 1, both players will most likely be sent to the waiver wire shortly.

What do you think about Herbig and Highsmith's updates prior to the season beginning? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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