49ers land Steelers’ 16-sack edge rusher in trade proposal

As the NFL offseason heats up and the draft approaches, trades are a crucial part of the landscape. The San Francisco 49ers have already made waves by sending a third-round pick to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. Now, rumors are circulating about another potential move that could drastically improve the 49ers’ pass rush.

49ers eyeing Nick Herbig as a potential trade target

According to FOX Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano, a hypothetical trade proposal could see the 49ers land Pittsburgh Steelers’ outside linebacker Nick Herbig. This move would bolster the 49ers’ edge-rusher rotation, a position that was significantly lacking last season. In exchange, the 49ers would send their No. 58 pick in the upcoming draft, along with a conditional 2027 fifth-round pick, to Pittsburgh for Herbig.

A much-needed boost for the 49ers’ pass rush

The 49ers’ pass rush was notably underwhelming in 2025, with Bryce Huff leading the team with just four sacks — a far cry from the elite level of pass rush they’ve been accustomed to in recent years. While there is optimism surrounding the health of both Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams, who are expected to return to form after ACL injuries, the 49ers could use another reliable player in their edge-rushing rotation. Enter Herbig, who, at just 24 years old, could be a valuable addition to the roster.

Herbig has spent the past few seasons as a rotational player behind the Steelers’ star pass rushers, T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Despite not being a full-time starter, he has still managed to rack up 16 sacks and nine forced fumbles over his three-year career. This solid production in a limited role has raised some eyebrows, particularly with the 49ers’ need for an upgrade at edge rusher.

Why the trade makes sense for the 49ers

Herbig is entering the final year of his contract, and the Steelers may be inclined to move him for the right price, especially given their stacked linebacker corps. For the 49ers, acquiring Herbig would provide immediate depth at one of their most crucial positions. While they could opt to draft an edge rusher at No. 27 or even No. 58 in the upcoming draft, general manager John Lynch might prefer to secure an established player like Herbig, who already has proven production in the NFL.

A player with 16 career sacks, including nine forced fumbles, would provide a significant upgrade to the 49ers’ pass rush, especially considering he has achieved this level of production without being a full-time starter. If Bosa and Williams struggle to return to form or suffer lingering effects from their ACL injuries, Herbig could step into a larger role and potentially become a starter under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.

A trade that may cost, but could prove valuable

While the cost of acquiring Herbig — a second-round pick and a future conditional pick — may seem high, it could prove to be worth the investment for the 49ers. Their pass rush has been one of the most important parts of their defense in recent years, and after struggling in 2025, bolstering this area with a proven edge rusher could be exactly what they need to get back to their dominant defensive form.

The 49ers’ defense has long been one of their strengths, and if they want to remain competitive in the NFC West, adding another proven pass rusher would give them a significant edge. Herbig could be the missing piece they need to return to the top of the division and make a run at the Super Bowl.

What does this mean for the Steelers?

For the Steelers, the decision to move Herbig would signal a shift in their linebacker rotation. While Watt and Highsmith are among the best pass-rushers in the league, parting ways with Herbig could give other younger players a chance to step up and potentially take on a larger role in the defense. However, if the Steelers believe that their future is bright with their current defensive core, moving Herbig could free up resources to strengthen other parts of the roster.

A potential future star in the making

Herbig’s ability to produce in a limited role with the Steelers suggests that he has the potential to step into a starting position and thrive. With the right coaching and system in place, he could emerge as one of the NFL’s top pass rushers, making the trade a worthwhile gamble for the 49ers. If things go as planned, the 49ers could find themselves with a dynamic edge rusher capable of making an immediate impact.

In the NFL, trades like this one are pivotal, and the 49ers may be one step closer to securing a player who could make all the difference in their quest for another Super Bowl appearance. The 2026 offseason is already shaping up to be a pivotal one for San Francisco, and acquiring a talent like Nick Herbig could be just what they need to push them over the top.