Nick Herbig shocked the NFL with his massive $100 million extension two months ago, and the Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher has even bigger hopes for his 2026 season.
On a new episode of The Irish Steelers Podcast, Herbig revealed a lofty goal he has for himself this upcoming season: becoming the 2026 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
"I want to be Defensive Player of the Year," Herbig said.
Nick Herbirg says he wants to be defensive player of the year in 2026. #Steelers#NFL
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) August 13, 2026
Herbig, who was drafted by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has looked tremendous over the past few seasons. Almost unguardable in 2025, Herbig recorded the highest edge pass-rush win rate at 25%, ahead of Nik Bonnito of the Denver Broncos, Micah Parsons of the Green Bay Packers, and Will Anderson Jr. of the Houston Texans.
While Herbig hasn't received nearly as much playing time as Alex Highsmith or T.J. Watt, there's reason to believe that he'll see a big opportunity in 2026, especially after signing his new $100 million deal.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 1 Steelers defender has shocking goal for 2026 season