New Update Provides Clarity On The Steelers Trading Alex Highsmith

It shouldn't have come as a surprise when the Pittsburgh Steelers extended promising pass rusher Nick Herbig. Despite not operating as a full-time starter throughout the course of his career, he has proven time and time again that he has a knack for creating the splash play. He is in the long-term plans that the organization has for the defense; however, his fresh deal immediately prompted questions about the futures of both TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. Unless there are strategic plans to utilize all three on the field at the same time, one of the two veterans may be playing elsewhere sooner rather than later.

The Steelers could probably get a pretty solid return in a trade for either edge rusher. Highsmith's contract is much more manageable than Watt's, however. Additionally, Pittsburgh could soon restructure the former AP Defensive Player of the Year's deal, and that would make him even harder to send off. Highsmith, on the other hand, is an intriguing player to talk about when it comes to the market.

As the franchise continues to search for a quarterback who can start for 10 or more years, extra draft capital in 2027 would go a long way in moving far up into the first round. Highsmith would garner at least a second- or third-round selection, so it would make sense for the front office in the Steel City to listen if another team came calling with significant interest.

In a recent fan chat for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, reporter Ray Fittipaldo was asked about why the Steelers aren't considering moving on from Highsmith now or if they will even consider it. Despite the constant conversation, it doesn't make sense to do so because the goal is to win now, rather than rebuild for the future in any way. Once 2027 rolls around, however, things could seriously change.

"The Steelers are built for winning this season, and Highsmith is set to be a big part of their defense," Fittipaldo wrote. "They have to address the situation after the season for sure, but I don't think they're looking to move him now."

There was early discussion about Pittsburgh moving on from one of the top three edge rushers on the roster, but as training camp nears, the likelihood of a significant deal occurring is becoming less and less likely. Pittsburgh appears ready to let Watt, Highsmith and Herbig all contribute in different ways, even if that kind of approach cannot go on for multiple years in a row.

The Steelers have usually drafted, developed and extended their best players. The same has been the case recently, but it got a little bit complicated after hitting the jackpot several different times with pass rushers. Occasionally, having success in drafts can lead to complicated financial repercussions, which is something that the front office is trying to navigate as the 2026 season inches closer.

For now, it truly appears as if the team wants to allow the trio to become the league's very best, and then reassess the situation in 2027. On top of that, both Highsmith and Herbig have not been able to fully avoid the injury bug during their respective careers. Having the depth could be pivotal with the goal of making some kind of deep postseason run once January rolls around.

Steelers Might As Well Try Getting Creative Before Making A Trade

Barring a significant injury, Highsmith should still have some legitimate trade value when the new league year commences in March of 2027. It doesn't make too much sense to part ways with him now, as the three could combine for over 30 sacks in 2026. If all of them have tremendous seasons, then trade possibilities should be endless, which will allow the Steelers to strategically get what capital they need to move up in round one if the opportunity presents itself.

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