The Pittsburgh Steelers are altering their defensive rotation, stepping away from the heavy starter snap counts that previously defined their outside linebacker usage.
Instead of asking star pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith to routinely log over 80 percent of defensive snaps, Pittsburgh is implementing a deliberate four-man rotation alongside Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer. The strategic shift aims to keep the defense’s top playmakers fresh for crucial fourth-quarter situations and preserve them over a grueling 17-game regular season.
The four-man wrecking crew recently joined their teammate Cameron Heyward on his podcast, “Not Just Football with Cam Heyward,” to talk about the changes. One of the changes being implemented by new defensive
coordinator Patrick Graham is a linebacker rotation aimed at keeping them fresh and healthy into the post-season.
Watt highlighted the logic behind the approach, emphasizing that speed and effort require a deep bench.
"Obviously, Jack's going to be in the fold a good amount as well because when we want to play as hard and as fast as we can, we're going to need to have a deep rotation," Watt explained.
The rotation relies heavily on mutual trust between the starters and backups. Rather than viewing rest as a concession, the unit treats quick breathers as a tactical advantage, ensuring maximum intensity on every rep.
Herbig offered a candid look at how Watt manages his energy during long, taxing drives, revealing that the veteran isn't shy about tapping out to keep the motor running high.
"’Jack, be ready, dog. Like, I'm going to need you this game, bro. I'm going to be gassed out there, bro,’" Herbig recalled Watt saying on the sideline. "’Like, we going to be on a good rotation. I can't be playing 65-plus snaps every time.’"
By giving Herbig and Sawyer immediate, high-stakes responsibilities, including critical third-down snaps, the Steelers are building a sustainable model. Managing starter workloads now ensures that when Pittsburgh needs a game-altering strip-sack in crunch time, Watt and Highsmith will have plenty left in the tank to deliver.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: T.J. Watt changes snap counts approach to last 17-game season with Steelers
