The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the NFL Draft in a strong position. While there are still a few needs to address, most of the roster’s major holes have already been filled through free agency and a trade. It appears unlikely that they will shop a star player ahead of the draft, but general manager Omar Khan has demonstrated a willingness to make calculated moves when they benefit the team.
Alex Highsmith has been a dependable presence for Pittsburgh throughout his career. While he has not developed into a true star, he has consistently been a reliable player for the Steelers. However, with Nick Herbig emerging and Jack Sawyer waiting in the wings, Highsmith’s long-term future with the team could become uncertain.
Speculation has previously linked Herbig to the Dallas Cowboys as they continue to search for help at the edge rusher spot.
It is possible they could also turn their attention to Highsmith. Dallas reportedly showed interest in Maxx Crosby before a potential trade with the Ravens fell through, signaling their willingness to pursue impactful pass rushers. With the Cowboys actively exploring options, Highsmith could become a topic of discussion at the upcoming draft if the price is right.
Pittsburgh Steelers could trade Alex Highsmith if they got this offer at the draft
Trading Highsmith in a major draft deal remains unlikely, though it cannot be completely ruled out.
Pittsburgh will need to determine whether it wants to keep Herbig and expand his role this season. If not, the team would be wise to explore moving one of the two edge rushers to gain value before an eventual departure. Highsmith would likely yield the greatest return in a trade, making this proposal a sensible option under the right circumstances.
It would take a significant offer for the Steelers to seriously consider moving their longtime veteran. Highsmith remains under contract and has shown no signs of slowing down. For Dallas to spark meaningful discussions, it would need to present a compelling trade package. With Pittsburgh eager to draft an impactful wide receiver, this mock trade could help position them closer to that goal.
The top three playmakers in the upcoming draft are Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, and Jordyn Tyson. If Pittsburgh hopes to secure one of them, it will likely need to move up in the first round. This trade places the Steelers firmly in that conversation while also providing enough draft capital to facilitate another move up, if necessary.
Additionally, it includes a third‑round pick next year, which could prove vital if Pittsburgh aims to stay in contention for a top quarterback in next year’s draft.
The price is reasonable for Dallas to consider and gives Pittsburgh a legitimate opportunity to land Lemon, Tate, or Tyson. While the move may not immediately energize all of Steelers Nation, trading Highsmith in this package would position the team favorably for the future. It represents a calculated sacrifice at a position of strength in hopes of addressing a more pressing need on the roster.