Nate Herbig, a former offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has announced his retirement. The Washington Commanders confirmed his decision after he signed a one-year deal with the team earlier this year. Instead of continuing his playing career, Herbig has opted to retire and focus on life after football.
Herbig’s journey in the NFL has been challenging; he spent the entire previous season sidelined with a torn rotator cuff. As he transitions from football, he will be stepping away from the sport, which he played for four years at a professional level. He is notably the brother of Nick Herbig, an outside linebacker for the Steelers.
In his career, Nate Herbig played primarily as a guard and center. He competed for the starting center position with the rookie Zach Frazier before his injury hampered his chances. Herbig’s career included two seasons with the Steelers and a stint with the New York Jets, as well as a foundational period with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he began his professional journey as an undrafted free agent out of Stanford in 2019.
Over his four-season career, Herbig participated in 61 games and made 30 starts, showcasing his versatility across different positions on the offensive line. Known for his significant contributions as a depth player, he was viewed as a key swingman for the Steelers, particularly for the 2023 season.
While his retirement marks the end of an era for Herbig, it opens up new opportunities for him beyond football. Transitioning to life after sports can be a rewarding experience, as many athletes find new passions and pursue different career paths. Herbig’s years in the league have built a strong foundation that he can leverage as he moves forward into the next chapter of his life.