Nick Herbig

Nick Herbig Player Profile

Summary

Nick Herbig was selected in the 4th Round (#132 Overall) of the 2023 Draft out of University of Wisconsin. Herbig is a highly productive, tenacious edge‑type defender with strong pass‑rush instincts, good movement and hustle. His limitations largely stem from his frame (size and reach), run‑defense anchor ability, and overall fit as a prototypical EDGE. In the right scheme and with proper physical development, he has the upside to become a key contributor; if those areas don’t progress, he may settle into a rotational role. Either way, his motor and instincts give him a solid floor with meaningful potential.

Strengths

  • High production & pass‑rush effectiveness: In college he generated significant pressure: e.g., 11 sacks in 2022, 15.5 tackles for loss that season. He’s got a strong first‑step and good bend off the edge, which helps him win one‑on‑ones paired with a good motor and relentless pursuit.

  • Versatility and athleticism for his role: He’s effective in space, shows fluid movement and can drop into zones and displays a variety of pass‑rush moves: inside rip, swim, speed‑rush, etc. PFSN

  • Adaptable scheme fit and special teams value: Because of his hustle and versatility, he can contribute as a third‑down pass‑rusher, and early on may also offer special teams value.

Weaknesses & Areas for Improvement

  • Undersized / short reach for a prototypical edge rusher: His frame is lighter compared to many NFL EDGE defenders; his arm length (~31″) is short for his role, which limits his ability to engage and control offensive linemen. Because of size concerns, some evaluators projected him more as a situational rusher or a hybrid rather than a full‑time every‑down edge.

  • Run‑defense and anchor ability may be limited: Against strong run‑blocking, he may struggle to sustain blocks or set the edge because of his frame and he can get engulfed or pushed off his spots in the run game. CBS Sports

  • Coverage and pure athleticism concerns: While he has some zone abilities, his experience and polish in coverage are still considered work in progress. His top‑end athleticism (for his frame) isn’t considered elite; in other words, while he’s good, he may not match the speed‑rushers or power‑rushers of the elite tier. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Projection risk / role clarity: Because of his “tweener” size (in between typical linebacker and edge rusher prototypical builds), there is some risk that his best role may be as a sub‑package or situational player rather than a full every‑down starter early on.

Fit & Outlook

Herbig projects as a high‑effort pass‑rushing specialist with potential to grow into a more expanded role if he adds strength and polish. His best fit in the short term might be as a situational edge rusher on passing downs, especially third‑down or obvious pass‑scenarios or generally a rotational role where his burst and quickness can be maximized. Herbig also can add special teams contributions while he develops his all‑around game. In the long term, if he develops well and adjusts to the NFL’s physical demands, he could expand into an every‑down role, perhaps in a scheme that accommodates his size (e.g., hybrid linebacker/edge, 4‑3 SAM or 3‑4 stand‑up role).