Before the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 9 upset win over the Indianapolis Colts, fans were pushing for Alex Highsmith to see a decline role on defense. This had less to do with Highsmith's performance halfway through the 2025 season and more to do with the phenomenal (albeit part-time play) of Nick Herbig.
Herbig had a career game against the Cleveland Browns in Week 6 when he recorded two sacks and six pressures in a convincing defensive performance. One week later, the 23-year-old edge rusher had another dominant outing, but saw his snap count decrease against the Cincinnati Bengals.