After signing Nick Herbig to a new deal, it’s clear the Pittsburgh Steelers believe in the power of a good pash rush. TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith and Herbig are all worthy of receiving starter’s reps, and the playing time between those three will be one of the more interesting storylines to watch this season. One wrinkle which is sure to return in 2026 is a package using all three edge rushers. When that package makes an appearance, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette thinks Payton Wilson is one player who might come off the field.
“Well, you’re not gonna want to set up mismatches for the other team,” Fittipaldo said during an appearance on the Pomp and Joe Show on 93.7 The Fan. “So, I think he [Patrick Graham] would wanna match up defensive backs with receivers, skill guys on skill guys. So, probably a guy like Payton Wilson. Generally you’re gonna trade a big for a big, you’re not gonna trade a big for a small, just because the opposing offense can sort of dictate at that point where they’re gonna go with football.”
Wilson, who’s entering his third season with Pittsburgh, has developed into a strong defender in the passing game. But his weaknesses against the run have forced him off the field in specific run-heavy downs. While Patrick Queen’s play isn’t without its own criticisms, he has been relied on as an every-down linebacker. Meanwhile, Wilson figures to be more expendable when the defense calls for the three-outside linebacker package.
The use of the that package may depend on availability as much as anything else. Highsmith has struggled with injuries over the last two seasons. And all three of those edge rushers missed time last year with various ailments. With Herbig now making big money, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will be incentivized to get him on the field as much as possible.
Pittsburgh’s history of rushing the passer, and the impact it can have on the rest of the defense, shouldn’t be ignored. With so much money invested into one position, it will be incumbent upon Graham and his coaching staff to get the most out of the pass rush.
That could include using all three rotationally, or deploying all three on the field at the same time. But one thing has been made clear this offseason; Nick Herbig is going to have a big role on this defense. A player like Payton Wilson will need to demonstrate he can make an equal impact. If not, he might be at risk of losing snaps.
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