The Pittsburgh Steelers have secured the future of their pass rush by agreeing to a four-year, up to $100 million contract extension with outside linebacker Nick Herbig. The 2023 fourth-round pick out of Wisconsin has steadily improved each season, recording 3.5 sacks as a rookie in 2023, 5.5 in 2024, and a breakout 7.5 in 2025—outpacing Pro Bowler T.J. Watt that year. Herbig, who entered 2026 as the final year of his rookie deal, skipped portions of mandatory minicamp to protect his body during negotiations.

The new deal keeps Herbig in Pittsburgh through the rest of the decade, joining Watt and Alex Highsmith to form one of the NFL’s deepest edge-rushing groups. Head coach Mike McCarthy praised Herbig’s offseason commitment and communication, calling it a win for team continuity. The Steelers are now investing heavily at outside linebacker, with Watt’s cap hit at $42 million and Highsmith’s over $20 million in 2026.

Herbig’s extension also sets a precedent for another key Steelers player: cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who, like Herbig, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and skipped some minicamp drills. Porter, the son of former NFL linebacker Joey Porter Sr., has not allowed a passing touchdown since his rookie season and is seeking elite cornerback compensation. With Pittsburgh prioritizing core retention, both deals could define the team’s trajectory under new leadership.