Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig poised for impactful return against Seahawks
The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for their home opener, and one of their key linebackers is on track to make his season debut. After a challenging Week 1, the Steelers defense is looking for a boost as they prepare to face the Seattle Seahawks.
Defensive Struggles in Week 1
In their season opener against the New York Jets, the Steelers defense faced significant challenges, allowing a staggering 32 points. Despite managing to make a crucial stop late in the game, concerns linger about a unit that is expected to rank among the top five defenses in the NFL.
The absence of a vital contributor in the pass rush was keenly felt, as third-year edge rusher Nick Herbig was sidelined due to injuries. His presence was missed, and the Steelers relied heavily on T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith throughout the entire game.
Herbig’s Optimism for Return
As the Steelers look to rebound in front of their home crowd, Herbig is expected to return to the field. Following a recent practice, he expressed optimism about his availability, stating, “I’m very optimistic” about playing against the Seahawks.
Herbig opened up about the frustrations of watching from the sidelines, emphasizing the emotional toll of not being able to support his teammates. “I think the most frustrating thing is just not being able to be there for my brothers,” he shared. “It doesn’t matter what it is I’m doing, as long as I’m on the field and get to have my brothers’ backs out there.”
A Versatile Asset for the Defense
Herbig’s versatility makes him a key asset for the Steelers. He serves as a valuable third edge rusher, providing depth that allows Watt and Highsmith to rest without compromising defensive quality. His speed and tackling ability also make him an invaluable special teams player.
The impact he brings to the field is undeniable, and not being able to contribute has weighed heavily on the young linebacker. “We go through all this stuff in the offseason,” he noted, reflecting on the rigorous preparation that leads up to game day. “And not being able to be there for them on game day is a sickening feeling.”
With the anticipation of his return, the Steelers are hopeful that Herbig can help fortify their defense as they face the Seahawks, aiming to bounce back and assert themselves in the early stages of the season.
