NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport believes that the Steelers are likely to keep EDGE T.J. Watt and EDGE Alex Highsmith on the roster for 2026.
Watt, 31, and Highsmith, 28, were the starting EDGE rushers last year. Their 24-year-old backup, LB Nick Herbig, signed a four-year, $100 million extension on Tuesday, prompting questions as to whether the Steelers could consider trading away one of their two veterans. Highsmith was not present at mandatory minicamp on Wednesday, but this was reportedly due to a
stomach bug, not discontent over his backup’s big payday. Per Rapoport, Watt’s “enormous” contract, coupled with the amount of money the Steelers have invested elsewhere in their EDGE unit, means that they will probably “have a decision to make” in 2027.