League Sources Identify Most Likely Landing Spot For Steelers' Alex Highsmith

The Pittsburgh Steelers shocked some of the more casual NFL fans last week when the organization agreed to a very lucrative extension with outside linebacker Nick Herbig. The deal will keep him under contract in Pittsburgh through the 2030 season as it was for four years and worth $100 million with $42 million guaranteed. This was surprising as Herbig has not been a starter in Pittsburgh throughout his career, but he probably could start on 30 other teams in the NFL. He is certainly deserving of the contract, however. Some believe the move was questionable just because the franchise is already paying so much money to Alex Highsmith and TJ Watt, but only time will truly tell.

Fans have begun to speculate and there are some theories out there that either Watt or Highsmith could be traded after Herbig was extended. The team seems to be content to move forward with all three outside linebackers on the books for the 2026 season, but the franchise would certainly listen to any calls that come in. If any player is traded, it would more than likely be Highsmith as his contract is the most tradable between he and Watt, and Watt seems to be a one-helmet type of guy. 

Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom, who has won awards for his sports writing and has covered the NFL since 2004, recently discussed the scenarios of a potential Highsmith trade. He spoke to league sources that were able to identify a few potential landing spots for the veteran edge rusher.

"Linebacker Alex Highsmith could end up being the one to go at some point this summer or fall," La Canfora wrote. "Highsmith has flashed strong pass-rush potential in the past, but has been unable to get home consistently. Getting with new coaches in a new scheme could help, and several teams were at least monitoring the [Myles] Garrett situation -- league sources pointed to Washington, Philadelphia, Buffalo and San Francisco, who could well end up suitors for Highsmith."

There were teams that were monitoring Myles Garrett before he was dealt to the Los Angeles Rams, and it is fair to assume that those same teams might be interested in a player like Highsmith. Obviously, Highsmith is not the same caliber of player, but he would address the same need that Garrett does in terms of getting pressure to the opposing quarterback.

La Canfora named four teams that would be interested in Highsmith: the San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders. The Steelers still think they are legitimate contenders in the AFC, so a trade to the Bills is out of the question. That leaves at least three teams, all with needs at edge rusher.

General Manager Howie Roseman of the Eagles has been known for being aggressive when it comes to trades, so it is fair to assume that Philadelphia might be at the top of the list. However, the Steelers are scheduled to take on the Eagles in 2026, which could affect things. San Francisco or Washington might be more likely, but it would all come down to compensation of course. Highsmith also only has two years left on his current deal, so any team acquiring him might want to work out a new contract.

Steelers Should Move Forward With All Three Edge Rushers

Herbig is highly likely not going to get traded as he just signed his new deal, and the organization should keep Watt and Highsmith around as well -- at least for the 2026 season. Let Highsmith play out the 2026 season in Pittsburgh, and maybe he has a career year and increases his trade value. Then a move can be made prior to the 2027 NFL Draft, and Pittsburgh can bring in more draft capital to potentially land a quarterback.

What do you think about the Steelers trading Highsmith? Let me know on X, @brogannoey!

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