Steelers Taking Calls on Edge Rushers: The Best Option for the Bears

Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) applies pressure to Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The NFL Draft is mere days away, and like always, there is speculation about trades happening in the top-10. One move already occurred this weekend when the New York Giants sent star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals for pick No, 10. It has also been reported that the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans are looking to trade back and the Kansas City Chiefs are trying to trade up.

That said, over the weekend, the Pittsburgh Steelers entered conversations about a draft-day trade. According to Yahoo Sports, Charles Robinson, the Steelers have received calls on both Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. If Pittsburgh is looking to move one of these edge rushers, Chicago needs to be in on the trade.

Why the Chicago Bears Should Target Either Alex Highsmith or Nick Herbig

Acquiring either Highsmith or Herbig would provide a huge boost for Chicago's defensive line. Highsmith, the more high-profile name, is entering his age-29 season and has been a productive player next to T.J. Watt. The 29-year-old has recorded six or more sacks in five of his six NFL seasons.

In 2025, Highsmith recorded 44 QB pressures and 10 sacks, according to PFF. Although last season was a down year for him, he would have still been by far the best edge rusher if he were on Chicago.

The biggest issue with the Bears trading for Hghsmith is their lack of cap space. In 2026, the veteran is due $14.5 million, and in 2027, he is fue $15.5 million. However, Robinson mentioned in his article that Highsmith will likely be looking for a contract extension if he has a bounce-back 2026 season.

While that would help with the cap in 2027, it also negates some of what Chicago attempted to do this offseaosn on defense by getting younger and faster. Still, trading for the veteran would be worthwhile as long as they don't have to give up their first-round pick on Thursday.

Trading for Herbig, on the other hand, could in theory cost more even though he's not as accomplished. The former University of Wisconsin product is only 24 years old and has looked good when rotating in for Watt and Highsmith.

Although Herbig fits what the Bears have put together on defense better this offseason, he could be even more difficult to acquire than Highsmith. The Steelers would likely seek at least two first-round picks and additional compensation given his on-field production, age, and how highly they value him.

It is also worth noting that Pittsburgh’s defense was one of the oldest units in the NFL in 2025 and struggled with consistency at times. That only increases the importance of them retaining young, ascending players like Herbig. Unless the cost is lower, Chicago should stay away from Herbig.

Nevertheless, it would be negligent for general manager Ryan Poles not to call Pittsburgh to inquire about either of these players.