Steelers' Teryl Austin Makes Powerful Promise About OLB Nick Herbig

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Nick Herbig in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, playing time was hard to come by for Herbig as the defense was filled with talent in front of him. However, every time Herbig was given an opportunity, he made the most of it. One of his best moments in his rookie season came when he strip-sacked Geno Smith and recovered the fumble to help Pittsburgh secure a much-needed win over the Seattle Seahawks.

In the 2024 season, Herbig built off that impressive start and continued to show growth as a young pass rusher. Now in the 2025 season, Herbig’s splash plays have continued, and he’s earning himself more playing time. Through just three games, Herbig already has 2.5 sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble.

Steelers Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin spoke to the Pittsburgh media on Thursday and revealed that Herbig’s role is changing for the better going forward. Austin has been one of the many coaches impressed with Herbig’s development and production. As the Steelers’ defense continues to rely on speed and physicality, Herbig has become an important piece in their rotation. 

"As much as we can get him on the field," Austin said while speaking about getting Herbig more playing time. "As we get going in this season he’s going to play a lot of snaps for us and play a lot of football."

Herbig's ability to generate pressure, create turnovers, and make impact plays has made it difficult for the coaching staff to keep him off the field. What once started as a limited role behind veteran stars is quickly turning into a significant presence on one of the league’s top defensive units.

Heading into the middle stretch of the season, Herbig’s consistency and effort have earned him more trust from the coaching staff. The Steelers have seen him grow both technically and mentally, and his performance has reflected that progress. Austin spoke about Herbig’s development and what the team expects from him as his playing time increases. He also shared his thoughts on what makes Herbig such a valuable player for the Steelers’ defense moving forward.

"It’s my job to find ways to get him on there and keep him on the field with what he has done," Austin said. "He is a splash player. He is always around the ball. He makes it miserable for offensive tackles and he’s playing really well. Guys who play well get rewarded with more playing time."

Alex Highsmith is the linebacker who has been ahead of Herbig on the depth chart. Although Highsmith has dealt with injury concerns during his career, when he is healthy and on the field, he is an elite pass rusher. However, his injuries have given Herbig more opportunities to show what he can do, so much so that many Steelers fans believe Herbig could be the future and that the team might eventually move on from Highsmith.

Steelers' Pass Rush Could Get Big Boost In Week 6

Highsmith is expected to play in Week 6, as Mike Tomlin revealed that the arrow is pointing up for him. If Highsmith is able to go, it will give the Steelers their full arsenal as a pass-rushing unit. Having a healthy Highsmith alongside a rising Herbig creates a dynamic edge presence that is excellent for the team’s defense.

Of course, TJ Watt is going to be dominant but getting Highsmith back to full health while Herbig continues to perform at a high level is a positive scenario for the Steelers. It ensures depth, versatility, and explosive playmaking ability on the edge, giving the team a dangerous combination of experience and youth in their pass rush.

How would you grade the way Nick Herbig has played for the Steelers so far during the 2025 season? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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