WATCH: Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig lead Steelers LB drills at OTAs amid T.J. Watt absence

T.J. Watt was not in attendance for Day 1 of Steelers OTAs — leaving OLBs Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig to lead to charge in practice drills, as the former DPOY seeks a potential record-breaking extension with Pittsburgh.

It's worth noting that OTAs are voluntary — but rumors suggest Watt could replicate his infamous 2021 'hold-in,' when he skipped team practices in a move that ultimately earned him a $112 million deal.

Several analysts and insiders have predicted that Watt is looking to surpass Myles Garrett's historical four-year, $160 million extension with the Cleveland Browns — with an emphasis on beating out his $123.5 million in guaranteed money.

With Watt skipping Day 1 of OTAs, and likely the remaining five practices from now until June 5, Highsmith and Herbig were captured on video leading the Steelers linebackers in practice drills — courtesy of The Athletic's Mike DeFabo, which fans can check out down below.

Will the Steelers get a deal done with Watt soon — or will Highsmith and Herbig continue to help Pittsburgh prepare for life without the former Defensive Player of the Year?

Alex Highsmith leading the linebackers at OTAs with TJ Watt absent for the voluntary session. pic.twitter.com/VkThvndF6Y— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) May 27, 2025

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Highsmith, Herbig lead Steelers LBs at OTAs amid T.J. Watt absence