Cowboys Urged to Trade for Steelers Hidden Gem Before Deadline
The Dallas Cowboys have been relatively quiet on the trade market after sending defensive cornerstone Micah Parsons to Green Bay ahead of the regular season.
Since that happened, unsurprisingly, their defense has been criticized often, with their pass rush in particular lacking. Through eight games, the Cowboys have managed 15 sacks, which is why some analysts believe Dallas could still add another edge before the trade deadline hits on November 4.
CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell had an interesting name as a possibility for Dallas: Nick Herbig of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Nick Herbig has a 94.0 defensive grade from PFF since Week 4, the best in the NFL, via Fansided’s Marcus Mosher,” Podell wrote, adding:
“However, he appears to be on the outs with the Steelers’ coaching staff: Herbig’s 52 defensive snaps across the last two weeks are 14th among his Pittsburgh teammates. Incredibly odd considering he leads the Steelers in sacks with 4.5 this season, half a sack more than T.J. Watt’s 4.0. He is set to enter the final year of his rookie deal in 2026, but it could be worth the Cowboys picking up the phone to see what his price may be.”
A Closer Look at Herbig’s Game
GettyThe Dallas Cowboys should try to trade for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig.
The 6-foot-2, 240-pound Steelers linebacker was a fourth-round pick in 2023 (No. 132 overall) after starring at Wisconsin, and he has shown steady growth since entering the league.
Across his three seasons, Herbig has been the third edge behind superstar T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Despite playing limited snaps, he has managed to become quite the disruptor.
Through six games in 2025, he has 13 career sacks, eight forced fumbles, one interception and 65 total tackles—matching or topping what many rotational rushers do in double the playing time. In 2024, he finished with 5.5 sacks and four passes defensed, then opened 2025 with 4.5 more sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception as his role grew on passing downs.
Even as a rookie in 2023, Herbig was one of the league’s most efficient pressure creators on a per-snap basis, a trend that carried into 2024 and 2025. His hot start this season — he had 20 pressures in his first four games — should absolutely intrigue Dallas.
Why the Dallas Cowboys Should Try to Trade for Steelers Edge Nick Herbig
Herbig would be a great piece for defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, whose defense emphasizes takeaways and sound tackling. Herbig’s knack for strip and hustle sacks would make him both a nice fit and an exciting addition.
The cost should also interest Dallas. Herbig is still on his rookie deal, which matters a great deal for a Cowboys roster currently juggling extensions elsewhere. Also, Pittsburgh has Watt and Highsmith entrenched, making Herbig — we won’t say expendable — but certainly worth checking in on if you’re Jerry Jones.
If he maintains anything close to his 2025 start, he’d be an immediate upgrade for a Cowboys defense that hasn’t played well or consistent all year.
He’s still only 23, which is another thing to love if you’re Dallas. That could make his price tag a bit higher, but considering his current usage in Pittsburgh, Herbig is definitely a player the Cowboys should be monitoring.
Maxx Crosby Promises a Dominant Return: ‘We’ll Keep Battling Every Single Play’
The Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive line is facing a significant challenge with one of their leaders, Maxx Crosby, battling an injury. Known for his relentless play, Crosby has been a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense since joining the team. Despite the setback, Crosby remains confident and determined to make a dominant return to the field.
In a recent statement, Crosby made it clear that the injury will not define him or his team. “Injuries are part of the game, but they don’t define who I am. I’ll keep pushing, keep fighting, and I’ll be back stronger than ever. I’m not backing down, and neither is this defense. We’ll keep battling every single play,”
Crosby’s leadership on and off the field has been critical to the Raiders’ defensive unit. His relentless style of play, combined with his ability to disrupt offenses, has made him a key player. The injury is undoubtedly a blow to the defense, but Crosby’s mindset is clear: this is just another challenge to overcome. He is determined to return stronger and continue being a force for the Raiders.
Throughout his career, Crosby has faced adversity and emerged stronger each time. His determination to keep fighting, even in the face of injury, is not just about him — it’s about setting an example for the rest of the team. Crosby’s leadership is invaluable, and it’s evident that his commitment to the team is unwavering.
The Raiders have relied on Crosby’s energy and ability to make game-changing plays. His absence may temporarily shift the dynamic of the defense, but with Crosby’s mindset and his work ethic, his return will undoubtedly reinvigorate the team. His words,
As the Raiders prepare for their upcoming games, they will undoubtedly miss Crosby’s presence on the field. However, his resolve to return stronger, coupled with the defensive depth the Raiders have, will be key in sustaining their competitive edge. The team will need to rally together and maintain their defensive focus, knowing that Crosby will be back to lead them as soon as he is able.
For now, Maxx Crosby’s focus is on recovery, and when he returns, it’s clear that he’ll be ready to make his mark once again. His determination to overcome obstacles and keep fighting is a rallying cry for his teammates, and the Raiders will no doubt look to Crosby’s example as they continue to battle for a playoff spot.
