Nick Herbig

Nick Herbig is an EDGE/LB tweener out of Wisconsin with a pass rush specialization. Despite his size, Herbig had consistent production. He finished the 2022 season with 11 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. Over his final two seasons at Wisconsin, Herbig maintained a 91+ pass rush grade (per PFF).

Herbig plays with reckless urgency and sneakily good technique. When used at EDGE against the run he does sometimes get overpowered by much larger tackles but most of the time is able to set the fairly well enough despite the physical disadvantage. He can run and chase against the run at off-ball linebacker but he doesn't have a particular instinct for diagnosing.

Pass rush is Herbig's bread and butter. As much as he plays with his hair of fire, he also has decent pass rush plan. He utilizes a solid cross-chop, and a speed rip. Herbig is particularly flexible and combines with an incredible get-off to bend his his way around tackles. He's also great at finishing plays by going for the ball to create turnovers. Herbig will need to develop a more consistent inside counter knowing there are tackles in the NFL that will be able to keep up with him if his rushes are predictable.

Herbig has shown the ability to drop in coverage. While it's not most natural for him, his athleticism definitely shows in those scenarios. He managed 3 PBU's last season despite limited coverage usage. This is certainly encouraging for teams that will look to use him as a 3-4 OLB.

Size will always be a concern with Herbig if he gets to play what he plays best at EDGE in the NFL. It was definitely a good sign that he showed up to the NFL Combine at 240 pounds (heavier than Nolan Smith). While his height and weight is comparable to some of the more prominent "mini EDGEs" in the NFL, like Haason Reddick, his 23rd percentile arm length is where the discrepancies lie. Not many players have panned out with his combination of measureables but if anyone looks like an outlier it's him.