The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive line has had a great start to the 2024 season. Through their first five games, their D-line has consistently ranked as the number-one defensive line unit in PFF’s rankings. However, that could change due to injuries to their defensive front.

Injuries have decimated the Steelers EDGE rushing unit over the past three weeks, as three of their five outside linebackers have suffered an injury. DeMarvin Leal, their backup rotational pass rusher, who converted from defensive lineman to outside linebacker this season, suffered a neck injury in their last game and will miss Week 6. Leal wasn’t the only positional player to leave the game.

The Pittsburgh Steelers up-and-comer exited last week’s game

Nick Herbig exited in the third quarter of last week’s game with a hamstring injury and did not return. It didn’t take Mike Tomlin long to determine Herbig’s availability, as the Steelers ruled him out on Tuesday, indicating that he could be dealing with a significant injury. We will update you once we have more information regarding the severity of the injury and whether he is an injured reserve candidate.

On top of that, their starter hasn’t played since Week 3.

The Pittsburgh Steelers star suffered a groin injury a few weeks ago

Alex Highsmith suffered a groin injury in the first half of their Week 3 game and did not return. Highsmith missed their last two games as Nick Herbig replaced him in the starting rotation. Unfortunately, he isn’t quite ready to return to the football field, as the Steelers have ruled him out for Week 6. He will miss his third consecutive game.

Since Highsmith, Leal, and Herbig will not play, Jeremiah Moon will likely start alongside T.J. Watt. Since their EDGE rushing depth is injury-depleted, defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk could receive reps as an EDGE rusher next week. Don’t be surprised if the team elevates an EDGE rusher from the practice squad for gameday.