Story perspectives

Steelers Open Camp; Highsmith Trade Talk, Herbig’s $100M Deal

7/24/2026

Summary

Steelers Start Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers begin training camp in Latrobe on July 28 under head coach Mike McCarthy.
Long snapper Christian Kuntz says he feels indifferent but good-nervous and wants strong tape to keep his job.
Analysts expect McCarthy to impose tighter personal accountability and a stricter schedule than former head coach Mike Tomlin.
The Steelers will open the season at home against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 13.

Summary

Highsmith Trade Rumors

Trade chatter ties linebacker Alex Highsmith to a possible move to the Carolina Panthers.
GM Omar Khan expects calls from Carolina after edge rusher Nic Scourton suffered a knee injury.
Nick Herbig received a contract extension worth up to $100 million, signaling the Steelers plan to keep Highsmith.
Inside linebackers Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson were identified as concerns, prompting the Steelers to scout the waiver wire for a free safety.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL instituted a hard salary cap, forcing teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers to restructure contracts. The cap was set at $57.4 million, and Steelers owner Dan Rooney publicly warned of roster churn if limits were ignored. Head coach Mike McCarthy enforces accountability, Nick Herbig signs a $100 million extension, and Alex Highsmith’s trade talks with Carolina Panthers continue under GM Omar Khan. The 1994 cap’s legacy forces the Steelers to balance high-value contracts with depth, prompting aggressive drafting and waiver-wire scouting to sustain competitiveness.

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Steelers Start Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers begin training camp in Latrobe on July 28 under head coach Mike McCarthy.
Long snapper Christian Kuntz says he feels indifferent but good-nervous and wants strong tape to keep his job.
Analysts expect McCarthy to impose tighter personal accountability and a stricter schedule than former head coach Mike Tomlin.
The Steelers will open the season at home against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 13.

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