The San Francisco 49ers are in a bit of a pickle when it comes to their pass rush. After a disappointing season with just 20 sacks, they're looking to bolster their defense in the 2026 NFL Draft. But, in my opinion, trading for Nick Herbig from the Pittsburgh Steelers might be a smarter move than drafting an edge rusher with their 27th overall pick. Here's why.
First, let's talk about the need for an upgrade. The 49ers' pass rush was anemic last season, and with key players like Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams nursing ACL injuries, the team is in a tough spot. But, what many people don't realize is that trading for Herbig could provide a quick fix. He's already proven himself as a capable pass rusher, with 16 sacks over his three-year career, and his advanced metrics suggest he's only going to get better.
Herbig's production is impressive, especially considering he's only started 11 games in 45 appearances. He had a career-high 7.5 sacks in 2025, and his 87.3 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus in that season is a testament to his talent. What makes this particularly fascinating is that he's stuck in a rotation behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith in Pittsburgh, which means he's already proven he can handle a heavy workload. In my opinion, this makes him a steal for the 49ers.
Now, let's talk about the cost. The proposed trade involves giving up a 2026 second-round pick (No. 58 overall) and a 2027 conditional fifth-round selection. While this is a significant price, it's worth it for the immediate impact Herbig could have on the 49ers' defense. Plus, with the Steelers in the final year of his contract, they might be more willing to negotiate.
One thing that immediately stands out is that Herbig's production could be a game-changer for the 49ers. His ability to generate pressure and make plays in the pass rush could be just what the team needs to complement Bosa and Williams when they return from injury. What this really suggests is that the 49ers could be looking at a much-needed boost to their defense, and Herbig could be the key to unlocking that potential.
In conclusion, while the 49ers may be tempted to draft an edge rusher with their 27th overall pick, trading for Nick Herbig could be a smarter move. His production, advanced metrics, and potential impact on the team make him a valuable asset, and the cost of the trade could be worth it for the immediate boost he could provide. From my perspective, this is a trade the 49ers should seriously consider.
