Former Wisconsin linebacker Nick Herbig dominates in Steelers’ preseason finale

Former Wisconsin linebacker Nick Herbig dominates in Steelers’ preseason finale

Former Wisconsin Badgers standout linebacker Nick Herbig continues to showcase his defensive tenacity for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Herbig, who registered four tackles and 1.5 sacks at linebacker as Pittsburgh’s staring outsider linebacker a week ago, followed his stellar output with two sacks and a hurry in six pass-rushing reps during Saturday’s preseason finale vs. Detroit, per ProFootballFocus.

The kicker: Herbig played just nine snaps for the Steel Curtain during the crew’s 24-17 defeat.

Herbig’s most lethal sequence of the contest arrived with roughly 10 minutes to spare in the opening frame. The 22-year-old lined up on the left edge, burst outside and stripped Lions’ quarterback Hendon Hooker to flip the possession.

While impressive, that wasn’t the only show-stopping play. As he did last week, NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger, a former professional offensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts and Philadelphia Eagles, analyzed Herbig’s tape after the bout.

After nearly sacking Hooker on the third play of the contest, Herbig followed with a spin on offensive lineman Connor Galvin to break free and bulldoze Hooker into the turf for a solo sack.

The 2022 consensus first-team All-Big Ten team member also showcase his ability to defend the run. After initially being denied, Herbig maneuvered back inside to tackle running back Jermar Jefferson inside the sticks.

Here’s the full breakdown:

The former Badger played in all 17 games as during his rookie campaign for Pittsburgh in 2023. Based off his preseason performances, he will contribute often alongside T.J. Watt and and Alex Highsmith for Teryl Austin’s defensive unit this season.