Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Rumor: Alex Highsmith to Packers

The Pittsburgh Steelers could be parting ways with edge-rusher Alex Highsmith, according to a trade proposal by Bleacher Report's Moe Moton. The analyst suggests the Green Bay Packers send a Day 2 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft to Pittsburgh for the veteran pass rusher.

What’s the proposed trade?

Moton’s idea would see the Packers, who finished 4th in the AFC with a 10-7 record and are on a one-game win streak, acquire Highsmith to bolster their defense. The Steelers could use the draft capital to rebuild, while Green Bay gets a proven sack artist with 45 career sacks, including 9.5 last season.

Why would the Packers want Highsmith?

Green Bay’s defense faces uncertainty with Micah Parsons sidelined until late September due to ACL recovery. Highsmith, who had 15 tackles for loss and 19 QB hits in 2025, could anchor the edge while Parsons recovers. The Packers also have $23.4 million in cap space to restructure Highsmith’s contract, which has no guaranteed money in its final two years.

What’s next for the Steelers?

If the trade happens, Pittsburgh would lose a key defensive piece but gain valuable draft capital. Highsmith has spent his entire career with the Steelers, amassing 212 solo tackles and 64 tackles for loss. The team’s next game, against the Atlanta Falcons on September 13, 2026, could be his last in black and gold if a deal materializes.

How would this impact the Packers’ defense?

Parsons, a Pro Bowler in every season of his career, had 12.5 sacks in 2025 before his injury. Highsmith’s experience and production could help Green Bay’s defense stay competitive early in the season. The Packers’ front office has until training camp to decide if this trade makes sense for their long-term plans.