Alex Highsmith Named as Potential Trade Candidate as Steelers Lock In Pass Rush Core

The Steelers' recent extension of edge defender Nick Herbig was the third instance in recent years in which they have reworked a pass rusher, and got the immediate attention of rival front offices in need of that commodity.

The reality is that most teams would welcome another pass rush threat, and the recent trade of Myles Garrett to the Rams points to the fact that they could be dealt during even what has been a downtime in the NFL calendar. 

The Steelers are not pressed to deal one, and given the recent injuries to former Defensive Player of the Year TJ Watt, having three under contract long-term makes a lot of sense.

Watt’s most recent extension would make him the most difficult to deal with, given his various injuries in recent years and the fact that his older brother, JJ Watt, had his skills diminish quickly late in his career as injuries mounted. 

Getting the kind of value the Steelers would want to even entertain moving off a franchise cornerstone like Watt seems a stretch.

Which One Is Most Likely To Go?

But linebacker Alex Highsmith could end up being the one to go at some point this summer or fall. 

Highsmith has flashed strong pass-rush potential in the past, but has been unable to get home consistently. Getting with new coaches in a new scheme could help, and several teams were at least monitoring the Garrett situation, league sources pointed to Washington, Philadelphia, Buffalo and San Francisco, who could well end up suitors for Highsmith. 

The Steelers aren’t facing any sort of deadline, and with Watt missing so much time lately, carrying three into the season would make a lot of sense for them. 

But there is scepticism 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.

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.