Mike Tomlin approached Nick Herbig before Sunday’s game against the Browns and let him know he would be introduced with the starting defense. Tomlin’s gesture was a recognition of the work Herbig had done in the past two games when Alex Highsmith could not play due to a high ankle sprain.

Herbig might not be labeled a full-time starter now that Highsmith is healthy, but he continues to be an impactful player on the Steelers defense. He had two more sacks in the 23-9 victory over the Browns and took over the team lead in sacks with 4.5 through the first five games.

“Herb’s a baller, man,” T.J. Watt said after the game. “You guys are just kind of getting hip to it, but we’ve known it for a long time. The kid does everything right. We have a hell of a rotation. Obviously Alex is back now, a

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