The Pittsburgh Steelers have made headlines by extending linebacker Nick Herbig with a four-year, $100 million contract, the first of its kind for a backup player. This decision signals strong confidence in Herbig, who may not remain a backup for long. The contract raises immediate questions regarding the futures of established pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Watt, who signed a three-year, $123 million extension in 2025, currently commands an average of $41 million annually, while Highsmith's new four-year, $68 million deal averages $17 million per year. The Steelers could opt to keep all three players for the upcoming season, but the possibility of trades looms large. Trading Watt could eliminate a $32 million guaranteed payment for 2026, while trading Highsmith could save $14.5 million in the same year. Given the ongoing demand for quality pass rushers across the league, particularly from teams like the Chicago Bears, Herbig's extension may act as a catalyst for other teams to inquire about Watt or Highsmith, potentially reshaping the Steelers' defensive lineup.