The Detroit Lions are still searching for more production off the edge, and the Pittsburgh Steelers may end up providing an answer through a potential trade.

Pittsburgh is loaded with pass-rushing depth, boasting T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and recent draft addition Jack Sawyer. With Watt entrenched as the cornerstone, Herbig continuing to develop, and Sawyer needing opportunities to get on the field, the Steelers could eventually decide that Highsmith is the odd man out.

That possibility has caught the attention of AtoZ Sports’ Mike Payton, who believes Detroit should seriously consider pursuing the veteran defender if Pittsburgh makes him available.

Highsmith will be approaching 29 years old when the season kicks off, but his production remains hard to ignore. In the 2025 season, he recorded 10 sacks and generated 44 pressures while lining up opposite Watt, showing he can consistently win when offenses are forced to pick their poison. That’s exactly the type of skill set the Lions are lacking on the other side of Aidan Hutchinson.

Detroit could choose to bring back Al-Quadin Muhammad after his surprisingly solid 2025 campaign, but his improved play likely means a higher price tag. That cost could push the Lions to explore alternatives.

Highsmith would offer a more established option. Despite missing time last season, he still managed 9.5 sacks in 13 games and has previously reached 14.5 sacks in a single year. His experience and consistency make him a potential long-term answer, especially with his contract running through the 2027 season.

Durability is the main red flag. Highsmith has dealt with injuries over the past two seasons, sitting out 10 games total—six in 2024 and four in 2025.

Historically, Lions general manager Brad Holmes has avoided major trades or expensive outside additions, preferring to invest in retaining Detroit’s own core players. However, after a highly disappointing 2025 season, the organization may feel increased pressure to be more aggressive.

If Pittsburgh ultimately decides to move on from Highsmith, Detroit could be among the teams willing to test whether a deal makes sense.