Alex Highsmith linked with four teams after Steelers sign Nick Herbig to extension

The Pittsburgh Steelers surprised pockets of fans and some other members of the NFL community when they signed Nick Herbig to a four-year, $100M extension that reportedly included $42M guaranteed last week. 

Subsequent reports indicated that the Steelers plan to hold onto fellow pass-rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith through at least the start of the 2026 season. However, it sounds like some believe that the Steelers could deem Highsmith surplus to requirements before the trade deadline arrives this coming November.

One of these four teams could target Alex Highsmith this fall?

"Highsmith could end up being the one to go at some point this summer or fall," NFL insider Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom US noted. 

La Canfora named the Washington Commanders, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers as potential landing spots for Highsmith.

ESPN stats show that Highsmith led the 2025 Steelers with 9.5 sacks in 13 games. That said, Watt signed a three-year, $123M deal that included $108M guaranteed last summer. He seemingly isn't going anywhere anytime soon after he missed three straight games late last season due to a partially collapsed lung he suffered during a dry needling treatment session at the Steelers' facility. 

As for Highsmith, he signed a four-year, $68M contract extension in July 2023.

Why people think the Steelers could ultimately become sellers

The perception exists that a Steelers team that plans to start 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers at quarterback this September won't want to weaken any portion of its roster via a trade that would involve acquiring a future draft asset. According to La Canfora, Rodgers' presence isn't causing other clubs to fear what the Pittsburgh offense will accomplish during the 2026 season. 

"There is skepticism leaguewide about Aaron Rodgers’ ability to lead them at quarterback at his advanced age and for this team to win the AFC North again with the Ravens and Bengals seemingly poised with superior rosters, and far superior quarterbacks," La Canfora added. "Highsmith’s name is going to crop up in trade inquiries and rumblings into the season, and the recent extension speaks to Herbig having a chance to prove to be a far more consistent force in their defense under a new coaching staff." 

If the Steelers have to turn to either 2025 rookie Will Howard or 2026 third-round choice Drew Allar to serve as their QB1 this fall, Pittsburgh could make a long-term business decision and sell Highsmith to the highest bidder before Thanksgiving.