Mike Tomlin Makes It Clear That Steelers' Nick Herbig Is Ready To Unseat Alex Highsmith

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense saw rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel making just his second start in the NFL in Week 6. The Cleveland Browns came to Pittsburgh with the hopes of an upset, but it was the Steelers that came away with a 23-9 victory. The defense played a dominant role, holding the Browns to just three field goals and completely stifling their offensive rhythm. Time and again, the Steelers’ front and secondary forced Gabriel and the Browns into difficult situations, proving that Pittsburgh’s defensive unit is ready to set the tone in 2025.

Before the game, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin made an unusual decision to announce rising pass rusher Nick Herbig as the 12th defender alongside the starters. The move was a statement, and Herbig backed it up with a breakout performance. 

He recorded two sacks and deflected a key pass, showing both his ability to disrupt the quarterback and his growing comfort on the field at the highest level. Fans and teammates alike took notice, recognizing that Herbig is quickly making a name for himself in Pittsburgh’s defensive rotation.

After the game, Tomlin explained just how high a level Herbig is playing at and why he deserves the recognition. Tomlin highlighted Herbig’s speed, instincts, and relentless motor, noting that his performance isn’t just about the stat sheet but the energy and impact he brings to the entire defense. 

With this kind of effort, Herbig is positioning himself as a rising star who could eventually challenge even veteran defenders for a starting role. Pittsburgh’s defense may have sent a strong message to the rest of the AFC North on Sunday, and Herbig is hitting his stride.

"He’s playing at a pretty high level, that’s why I introduced 12 defenders today," Tomlin told the media. 

One veteran pass rusher who has been dominant alongside TJ Watt is Alex Highsmith. When healthy, Highsmith excels at stopping the run and putting pressure on the quarterback. The issue is that he has struggled with injuries over the last couple of seasons. This has presented Herbig with more opportunities to get reps, and every time he takes the field, he makes big-time plays.

If Herbig continues to play like he did in Week 6 against the Browns, Highsmith’s job could start to be in jeopardy. Herbig was asked by a reporter who has been covering the NFL for 45 years about the unusual decision to announce a 12th defender before the game. Herbig spoke about what that moment meant to him and how much he valued the recognition.

"I wasn’t expecting that at all," Herbig said. "Mike T told me before the game, and I just wear that with great pride and honor because I know all of the great, legendary players that have come through these buildings and walked the same halls as me. The fact that they have that belief in me and respect in me to run out of the tunnel with all of the guys—I am truly blessed."

Steelers' Defense Gains Steam Against Cleveland

The Steelers defense is highly paid and very talented. They are also filled with veteran playmakers. On Sunday against the Browns, this defense really started to gain some momentum. It hasn’t started the 2025 season the way the team had hoped, but this showing certainly inspired some confidence. 

The Steelers sacked Gabriel six times, although they did miss several interception opportunities. The Browns still moved the ball a fair amount, but for a divisional contest and the situation, this defense clearly regained momentum.

What do you think of the way Steelers' Nick Herbig has been playing? 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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