The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly eyeing a blockbuster trade for Pittsburgh Steelers’ star edge rusher Alex Highsmith, a move that could reshape both teams’ defensive fronts. Highsmith, a third-round pick (102nd overall) in 2020, has evolved into one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers, and his $68 million contract makes him an attractive target for a Philly team looking to bolster its defense without breaking the bank.
Highsmith’s Rise to Stardom
Since his rookie season, Highsmith has steadily climbed the ranks. Initially a reserve, he earned a starting role by Week 13 of his debut year, finishing with 42 tackles and 2 sacks in 16 games. His breakout came in 2022, when he led the NFL with five forced fumbles, racked up 63 tackles, and notched 14.5 sacks. A standout moment was his strip-sack against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1, cementing his place among elite company. Since 2020, only three players have recorded at least 26.5 sacks, 59 QB hits, and 40 tackles for loss: Highsmith, teammate T.J. Watt, and Cameron Heyward.
In 2023, Highsmith signed a four-year, $68 million extension with Pittsburgh, a testament to his value. Last season, he remained a force, posting 6.0 sacks, 45 tackles, and two passes defensed in 11 games. His career totals are impressive: 281 tackles, 35.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, three interceptions, and one defensive touchdown across 77 games (66 starts).
Proposed Trade Details
Here’s the trade proposal that could benefit both sides:
Philadelphia receives: Alex Highsmith, 2026 4th-round pick (upgrades to a 3rd-rounder if Highsmith exceeds 11 sacks in 2025).
Pittsburgh receives: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick, and a conditional 2026 6th-round pick (upgrades to a 5th if Highsmith reaches 8 sacks in 2025).
Why Philly Wants Highsmith
For the Eagles, Highsmith checks multiple boxes. His rare combination of speed (4.70-second 40-yard dash), length (33-inch arms), and ball skills makes him a perfect fit for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s aggressive scheme. Highsmith’s sideline-to-sideline range, run-stopping toughness, and knack for takeaways would complement Philly’s front seven, adding a dynamic edge presence.
At 27 years old, Highsmith is in his prime, and his $17 million average annual salary is a bargain compared to top-tier pass rushers commanding $25 million or more. This team-friendly deal allows the Eagles to maintain cap flexibility while acquiring a proven difference-maker. Additionally, Highsmith’s leadership could elevate a young Philly defense, bringing intangible value to the locker room.
Pittsburgh’s Perspective
For the Steelers, trading Highsmith could provide financial relief. With cap hits of $18.6 million in 2025 and $20.1 million in 2026, moving him would free up significant space to extend core players like T.J. Watt. The proposed return—a 2026 2nd-round pick, a 5th-rounder, and a conditional 6th-rounder—offers draft capital to rebuild or address other needs. While parting with a player of Highsmith’s caliber is tough, the Steelers’ depth at edge rusher and long-term cap concerns make this deal worth considering.
A Bold Move for Roseman
Eagles GM Howie Roseman is known for his relentless pursuit of talent, and Highsmith represents a calculated gamble. His 35.5 career sacks, nine forced fumbles, and an interception returned for a touchdown highlight his game-changing ability. By acquiring Highsmith, Philly could solidify its pass rush without the premium cost of a 15+ sack free agent, all while preserving cap room for future moves.
The Steelers may be reluctant to let go of their $68 million star, but Roseman’s track record suggests he’ll push hard to make this deal happen. If successful, this trade could be a sneaky-good move for the Eagles, positioning them as serious contenders with a bolstered defense ready to dominate in 2025.