The biggest headline of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2025 offseason has been their quarterback situation. They’ve been waiting since March for Aaron Rodgers to decide whether he’ll accept the offer they gave him.
That means the veteran isn’t getting to know potential new teammates at voluntary OTAs. Instead, longtime NFL backup Mason Rudolph has been taking first-team snaps.
But that’s not the biggest story coming out of Steelers OTAs. The real attention is on who isn’t there, most notably, former Defensive Player of the Year and outside linebacker T.J. Watt.
No T.J. Watt? No Worries, Nick Herbig Is Ready To Run With the Steelers Ones
Plenty of big-name players are missing OTAs around the league, including Watt’s rival, Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett, New England Patriots wideout Stefon Diggs, and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Diggs and Garrett have both been seen out having fun. Garrett was photographed shopping in Japan, while Diggs was partying on a yacht with Cardi B; however, there has been no sign of Watt.
Watt’s absence is allowing Nick Herbig to do some extra work. According to a video posted by the team, Herbig told the media he is always happy to put in extra work, but he wishes Watt were there with him.
“I’d love T.J. [Watt] to be here, that’s my guy,” said Herbig to reporters. “But any chance I get to run with the one, that’s an awesome feeling. I feel like I prepare every day like that. I’m prepared to be a starter.”
Herbig, a fourth-round pick in 2023, played at Wisconsin just like his mentor, Watt. It’s a connection he’s used to grow over the last two seasons.
He’s said that Watt made himself available to the Wisconsin linebackers to help keep that pipeline strong. Since Herbig joined the Steelers, Watt and Alex Highsmith have mentored him, as shown in his play. Herbig knows the importance of staying ready. In 2024, he got his first start when Highsmith went down, but an injury of his own limited his impact..
“You never know when your number’s gonna be called in this league. You don’t want to miss your shot, you don’t want to miss your opportunity, so you’ve got to stay ready,” added Herbig.
Watt’s Value Not In Question, Just His Price Tag
OTAs are voluntary, but many believe Watt is sitting out due to contract negotiations. The last time he reworked his deal, in 2021, he stayed away until things got sorted out just before the season started.
The Steelers have a few unwritten rules when it comes to contracts. They don’t negotiate during the season and typically handle extensions during the summer. While the national media is making a big deal about Watt’s absence, most local Pittsburgh outlets see it as business as usual.
TJ Watt appreciation post.
Steelers need to get this man a contract ASAP! ⏰#NFL #Steelers
pic.twitter.com/pGbUejYgLn— The Standard (@TheStandard412) May 19, 2025
Watt will turn 31 this season, but is a proven difference-maker on the defense. He’s not someone the Steelers can just replace, and both sides are likely to get a deal done before Week 1.
Watt’s work ethic has never been in question, and fans know he’ll be ready whenever he hits the field. In the meantime, his absence is giving guys like Herbig and rookie Jack Sawyer more time to sharpen their skills.
