Steelers' Omar Khan Encouraged To Break Up Elite Pass-Rushing Duo In Controversial Packers Trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to hand Nick Herbig a four-year, $100 million extension has reignited speculation about Alex Highsmith's future. The Steelers made it clear they weren't willing to risk Herbig's price climbing any higher, locking up the 24-year-old pass rusher despite him currently sitting behind TJ Watt and Highsmith on the depth chart. It's an eye-popping commitment for a player who has largely served as the team's third edge rusher, but it also speaks to how highly Pittsburgh views his long-term potential.

With Patrick Graham taking over as defensive coordinator and Mike McCarthy leading the franchise, some around the NFL have wondered whether the Steelers could eventually move on from Highsmith and roll with Watt and Herbig as their starting edge duo. While there's been little indication Pittsburgh is actively shopping Highsmith, that hasn't stopped trade speculation from gaining traction.

In a recent trade proposal, Bleacher Report's Moe Moton suggested Steelers General Manager Omar Khan should send Highsmith to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 Day 2 draft pick, arguing Green Bay could address a glaring need at edge after moving on from Rashan Gary.

"Micah Parsons told reporters that he will start the 2026 season on the physically unable to perform list while recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus damage, which will sideline him for at least four games," Moton said. "Keep in mind that the Packers traded edge-rusher Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys."

The combination of star Micah Parsons' injury and Gary's departure has left the Packers with a significant hole on the edge. 

According to Moton, that makes Highsmith one of the most logical trade targets available, even if it would require Green Bay to invest both draft capital and a new contract.

"Green Bay can replenish its depleted outside linebacker group with a move for Highsmith, who may want a new contract," Moton said. "The Steelers edge-rusher doesn't have any guaranteed money in the final two years of his deal. With $23.4 million in cap space, the Packers can acquire Highsmith, rework his contract, and fill a glaring need on the edge."

As of July 2026, there have been no credible reports suggesting Khan is actively looking to trade Highsmith. The Steelers have consistently shown they value having an elite trio of edge rushers in Watt, Highsmith, and Herbig, even if finding enough snaps for all three has become increasingly difficult.

That said, some believe dealing Highsmith could benefit Pittsburgh by opening the door for Herbig to take on a full-time starting role. Others point to Highsmith's recent injury history as a reason to capitalize on his value now. However, when healthy, Highsmith has remained one of the NFL's most productive edge defenders, forming one of the league's premier pass-rushing duos alongside Watt.

Steelers Appear Set With Highsmith

While the business side of the NFL always leaves the door open for a surprise trade, the Steelers appear more interested in leaning on their defensive depth than breaking it apart. 

Although adding draft capital would be appealing, all signs point to McCarthy, Khan, and the organization viewing their edge-rushing depth as a major strength as they look to end their playoff drought and return to postseason football in 2026. The Steelers haven't won a postseason game since the 2016 season, and that drought has lingered for far too long. McCarthy believes he can change that, with Pittsburgh hoping his first season at the helm marks the beginning of a return to playoff success.

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