Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker Alex Highsmith has become the subject of intense trade speculation following the team's four-year, $100 million deal with Nick Herbig. While the Steelers have not confirmed any trade plans, the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Dallas Cowboys have emerged as potential landing spots for the 28-year-old pass rusher.
Contract and Salary Cap Implications
Highsmith is entering the third season of a four-year, $68 million contract extension signed in 2023. If traded before the 2026 season, the Steelers would clear his entire $14.5 million base salary from their books but incur an $11.2 million dead cap hit for 2026. This financial trade-off could influence the team's decision.
Interested Teams and Insider Insights
According to NFL insiders, the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Dallas Cowboys are the primary suitors. Steelers Wire's Andrew Vasquez noted, "The Lions defense desperately needs another talented edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson, and Highsmith could be that missing piece." Regarding the Packers, Vasquez added, "With Micah Parsons expected to be out until mid-October, the Packers would be wise to give the Steelers an offer they can't refuse."
Trade Likelihood and Potential Return
The trade likelihood is considered moderate to low. If a deal materializes, the Steelers could receive a Day 2 or early Day 3 pick, projected as a third- to fourth-round selection, given Highsmith's premium position, elite run-defense grades, and affordable salary.
Impact on Teams
For the Steelers, trading Highsmith would create salary cap space but weaken their defense, losing T.J. Watt's top pass-rushing partner. For the Lions, acquiring Highsmith would address a defensive weakness, and his $14.5 million salary is manageable with their $35 million in cap space. For the Packers, Highsmith would bolster the pass rush while Micah Parsons recovers from a brutal injury sustained last season.
As the 2026 season approaches, the trade rumors surrounding Alex Highsmith continue to intensify. Whether he stays in Pittsburgh or moves to a new team, his future remains a key storyline in the NFL offseason.
