Pittsburgh Steelers Extend Nick Herbig and Weigh T.J. Watt Trade amid Joey Porter Jr. Contract Talks

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed linebacker Nick Herbig to a four‑year, $100 million extension that includes $42 million guaranteed after a season in which he posted 30 tackles and 7.5 sacks. The deal places a spotlight on veteran pass‑rusher T.J. Watt, whose three‑year, $123 million contract and advancing age have prompted analyst Colin Cowherd to suggest the team could trade him for a first‑round draft pick to alleviate cap pressure and rejuvenate a costly defense.

The franchise has also turned its attention to cornerback Joey Porter Jr., the 2023 draft class member who skipped voluntary OTAs and limited his practice participation. Reports project a new contract in the $22‑$30 million‑per‑season range, reflecting his strong 2024 performance—fourth‑best passer rating allowed when targeted and seventh‑best yards per target among qualified corners. Porter’s father, former Pro Bowl linebacker Joey Porter Sr., also spent his career in Pittsburgh, underscoring the family’s longstanding link to the team.