Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig is expanding his toolkit at training camp under new head coach Mike McCarthy and new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Known primarily for his explosive ability to set the edge and pin his ears back, Herbig is embracing a noticeable shift in defensive responsibility: taking reps off the ball and operating out in space.
While Herbig remains a key component of Pittsburgh’s edge rotation alongside T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, the new coaching staff is experimenting with hybrid looks to get their dynamic pass rusher on the field more frequently.
Moving an outside linebacker off the line comes with a steep learning curve, requiring heightened awareness, rapid pre-snap processing, and seamless cross-positional communication.
Herbig, who recently signed a four-year, $100 million extension, detailed the shift in a camp interview with team reporter Missi Matthews, acknowledging the mental and tactical adjustments required.
“I think just being more out in space and having to communicate a lot more,” Herbig said when asked about the biggest learning curve. “Instead of being on the edge the whole time, now I got to communicate with the inside backers, the safeties, the corners. I got to play mind games with the quarterback a lot more. So it’s fun though. I enjoy it.”
.@missi_matthews and Nick Herbig recap the first day in pads. @UPMCHealthPlanpic.twitter.com/w6ZDBQMUFL
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 3, 2026
This expansion isn’t just about dropping into coverage; it allows Pittsburgh to disguise blitz paths, present modern alignments, and create pre-snap confusion for opposing quarterbacks. By trusting Herbig to orchestrate checks with defensive backs and linebackers, the Steelers can deploy creative sub-packages without sacrificing athleticism in space.
For Herbig, mastering these nuances is key to solidifying his role in Pittsburgh’s defense. If he can balance his pass-rushing instincts with fluid coverage intelligence, he could be the next in a long line of exceptional Steelers defenders.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Nick Herbig details new mental challenge at Steelers training camp
