The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has struggled out of the gate against the Indianapolis Colts allowing 17 points on the Colts' first three drives. An injury to Alex Highsmith last week left the team shorthanded at outside linebacker and now it appears his replacement is also unavailable due to injury.
According to multiple reports, Nick Herbig, a promising second-year edge backer from Wisconsin, left the game in the second quarter with an ankle injury and is questionable to return. The broadcast did not replay what may have caused the injury nor reported specifics to the severity of the injury.
Steelers can't afford to lose Nick Herbig
Herbig made his first start this week in place of Highsmith. He's shown some promise as a pass rusher in rotation and appeared poised to build upon that promise in his first start.
The Steelers had yet to record a sack against the Colts, even with Joe Flacco replacing Anthony Richardson who was ruled out for the remainder of the game shortly after Herbig's injury. Without Herbig in the game, the Colts will have a slightly easier time planning for TJ Watt on the opposite side.
DeMarvin Leal will take the bulk of the reps in lieu of Herbig. Leal has struggled through most of his career to fit into the Steelers' defense as either a down lineman or an edge rusher. He has just one career sack since joining the Steelers as a third-round pick in 2022.
Fortunately, Herbig was able to return to the game late in the second quarter. The Steelers may need a splash play from him if they are to fight back against the Colts.