The Pittsburgh Steelers are capitalizing on a strong and unselfish group of pass rushers, including T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig, stressing teamwork over individual accolades. With injuries causing fluctuating playing time last season, the coaching staff is eager to keep all three engaged, especially with Herbig now contracted for $25 million annually. Watt emphasizes the team's camaraderie and collaborative mindset, aiming for success without caring who gets the credit. As the group prepares for the upcoming season, the goal is to balance playing time while ensuring enough fresh legs on the field to maximize performance.

By the Numbers
  • Three pass rushers (Watt, Highsmith, Herbig) each recorded 7+ sacks last season.
  • Herbig's annual salary is now $25 million.
State of Play
  • The Steelers are focused on maximizing their depth at the pass rusher position.
  • Watt has faced injuries but remains a core influence on the younger players.
What's Next

As the season approaches, the Steelers will prioritize managing the pass rush rotation to keep players fresh while aiming for a Super Bowl. Continuously assessing players’ performances and injury statuses will be critical in determining individual contributions.

Bottom Line

With a strong bond and collective goal, the Steelers' pass rushers are poised to excel. Maintaining this selfless approach will be crucial for the team’s success as they pursue a championship.