If there’s one position of strength the Pittsburgh Steelers could subtract from this offseason, it’s edge rusher.

Pittsburgh has a crowded room that features T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer, who was drafted in 2025.With Herbig ascending, and with the Steelers possibly wanting to clear the path for Sawyer to get more run in 2026, Behind The Steel Curtain’s Jarrett Bailey predicts Pittsburgh will trade Highsmith to the Washington Commanders.

Bailey projects the Steelers will garner a 2027 third-round pick and 2027 sixth-round pick in exchange for the veteran edge rusher.

Bailey notes that another source of motivation to make this trade is the Steelers piling up more picks for next year’s draft, which will give them more cracks at a quarterback, or more ammunition to move up one.

“The Steelers are already loaded on picks in the Top 100 this year. And if you haven’t picked up on the theme here, they need to get as many picks as they can ahead of 2027 to get a potential franchise quarterback — which, yes, means I don’t believe they should take one in this year’s draft,” Bailey wrote. “Moving Highsmith clears the way for Nick Herbig to start and sign an extension, and also frees up opportunities for Jack Sawyer.”

Highsmith has no doubt been a productive edge rusher for Pittsburgh opposite Watt, but injuries have been an issue the past two seasons, with the veteran missing 11 games total in that span.

The Steelers might view Highsmith as expendable if they think Sawyer can take that next step in 2026, and with Herbig getting better and better each year.

In order to maximize their savings with a Highsmith trade, a post-June 1 deal would be the best bet, as that would incur a dead-cap hit of $5.6 million while saving $14.5 million, which the Steelers can use to bolster needs, like wide receiver, for example.

Pegging the Commanders as a possible landing spot makes total sense.

Washington’s sacks leader from 2025, Von Miller, is a pending free agent and it isn’t clear if he’ll return. Even if he does return, the Commanders could use more firepower and an every-down player to help Miller.

Adding Highsmith, who has two more years left on his $68 million contract, would give the Commanders a proven edge rusher who can step in and bolster a pass-rush that finished near the middle of the pack in sacks last season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly exploring a significant trade involving veteran edge rusher Alex Highsmith. The potential deal would send him to the Washington Commanders in a post-June 1 transaction. This move aims to create cap space and acquire future draft picks.

Highsmith, a key piece of Pittsburgh’s defense, signed a four-year $68 million extension in 2023. He has been a reliable pass rusher opposite T.J. Watt. Injuries limited his availability in recent seasons, but his production remains solid.

The 2025 season saw Highsmith record 9.5 sacks despite missing games. He contributed 50 tackles and showed versatility against the run. His experience makes him valuable in trade discussions across the league.

Pittsburgh’s edge rusher room features depth with emerging talents. Nick Herbig has ascended rapidly, delivering strong performances in limited roles. His pass-rushing ability has impressed coaches and analysts alike.

Herbig’s development allows the Steelers to envision him as a starter. He could pair effectively with T.J. Watt long-term. Extending Herbig becomes a priority if Highsmith departs via trade.

Rookie Jack Sawyer, selected in the 2025 draft, adds further promise. He showed flashes during his debut season with rotational snaps. Sawyer’s athleticism and technique suggest upside for 2026 and beyond.

The Steelers drafted Sawyer to bolster their pass rush future. His college production translated early in the pros. Increased playing time could accelerate his growth trajectory significantly.

Trading Highsmith clears a path for these younger players. It prevents overcrowding at the position and promotes competition. Pittsburgh values youth infusion in their defensive front.

The proposed trade targets a post-June 1 designation to optimize cap relief. This timing reduces the dead cap hit to around $5.6 million. It saves the team approximately $14.5 million in immediate salary.

Those savings provide flexibility for other roster needs. The Steelers seek reinforcements at wide receiver and potentially quarterback. Building around future assets remains a strategic focus.

Mock offseason scenarios from analysts like Jarrett Bailey project the deal. Pittsburgh would receive a 2027 third-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick. Washington sends those selections for Highsmith plus a 2026 sixth-rounder.

This package stockpiles ammunition for the 2027 draft class. The Steelers aim to position themselves for a franchise quarterback selection. Avoiding a quarterback in 2026 aligns with their current plan.

Highsmith’s contract carries substantial guarantees through 2027. Trading him now maximizes value before potential decline. At 28 years old, he offers immediate impact to a needy team.

Washington’s defense struggled with pass rush production in 2025. Von Miller’s impending free agency leaves a void on the edge. Adding Highsmith addresses that weakness effectively.

The Commanders seek veteran leadership to complement younger defenders. Highsmith’s experience in big games fits their rebuilding timeline. He could elevate their defensive unit quickly.

Pittsburgh’s front office, under new direction with Mike McCarthy, evaluates all options. Trading established players for picks fits a youth movement philosophy. Depth allows such bold maneuvers.

T.J. Watt remains the anchor of the defense unquestioned. His presence ensures continuity despite potential changes. Watt’s elite status provides a foundation for emerging talents.

Herbig’s ascent includes notable sack totals and pressures. He thrives in rotational snaps but excels with more opportunities. Starting him full-time could unlock even greater potential.

Sawyer’s rookie campaign included key stops and flashes of disruption. His length and power suit the Steelers’ scheme perfectly. Development under coaching staff promises steady improvement.

The trade rumor gains traction amid cap constraints league-wide. Pittsburgh’s loaded 2026 draft capital reduces urgency for immediate picks. Future assets become more valuable strategically.

Highsmith has been a model professional in Pittsburgh. Drafted in the third round in 2020, he earned his extension through consistent play. His community involvement adds to his legacy.

A move to Washington offers Highsmith a fresh start potentially. He joins a team on the rise with young talent. Contributing to their defensive turnaround could extend his prime years.

For the Steelers, parting with Highsmith represents calculated risk. Success hinges on Herbig and Sawyer stepping forward. Their performances will validate or challenge the decision.

Draft capital accumulation targets 2027 quarterback prospects. The class projects strong with multiple viable options. Pittsburgh positions itself advantageously in that market.

Cap management drives many offseason decisions currently. Highsmith’s deal consumes significant space without elite production recently. Relieving that burden aids broader roster construction.

Washington views Highsmith as a missing piece for contention. His 48 career sacks provide proven disruption. Pairing him with existing pieces strengthens their front seven.

The post-June 1 structure benefits both sides logistically. It allows cap hits to spread appropriately. Negotiations could intensify as the league year approaches.

Pittsburgh’s defense has long relied on edge pressure. Losing Highsmith tests that philosophy deeply. Watt’s dominance mitigates some concerns effectively.

Herbig’s motor and instincts draw comparisons to past Steelers greats. His work ethic aligns with the organization’s culture. Fans anticipate his expanded role eagerly.

Sawyer’s adjustment to pro speed continues positively. Additional reps build confidence and refinement. His ceiling remains high within the system.

The blockbuster nature of the rumor excites observers. It signals proactive management in Pittsburgh. Strategic trades shape franchises over time.

Highsmith’s departure would mark the end of an era at edge. His contributions helped sustain defensive identity. Gratitude for his service lingers among supporters.

Washington gains a battle-tested veteran immediately. Their pass rush upgrades could transform outcomes. Highsmith fits seamlessly into new schemes.

Pittsburgh eyes sustained contention through youth and picks. The trade aligns with long-term vision under current leadership. Execution determines ultimate success.

As discussions evolve, clarity on the deal emerges soon. Both teams weigh benefits carefully. The NFL landscape shifts with such moves frequently.

The Steelers’ edge group transitions toward a new chapter. Herbig and Sawyer lead that evolution forward. Highsmith’s potential exit paves their way prominently.

This reported consideration underscores roster fluidity today. Pittsburgh balances present strength with future potential. The outcome shapes their competitive trajectory ahead.