outside linebacker Alex Highsmith
late on day two. While the prowess of elite pass rushers often takes a hit outside of the first few rounds, Highsmith’s production in two seasons in Pittsburgh has introduced a player with boatloads of room to grow within a veteran Steelers front seven. In a rookie campaign in 2020 that saw him appear in all 16 games, Highsmith’s play was by no means flashy, but it presented Mike Tomlin’s group with a high-floor defender with versatility along the defensive front. 2021 provided a clearer lens into the potential of the former UNC-Charlotte standout—starting in 16 games and working in on 76% of defensive snaps opposite of All-World sack artist T.J. Watt.
Toolsy and uber-athletic wouldn’t be the adjectives to describe his game. While Watt and the likes of Cam Heyward often draw attention up front, Highsmith uses his power, bend, and leverage to win at the point of attack in his one-on-one reps with double teams and protections often slid away from his side. Several moments from last fall highlighted his flexibility at full speed, and with more snaps comes more experience. I expect Highsmith to flirt with double-digit sacks in year three.
A 5-tech talent with a truly unrelenting motor, there’s every reason for Highsmith to take another step forward for Pittsburgh. The onus is on Highsmith to take on an increased role, dominate advantageous matchups, and leverage attention—as much as possible—away from Watt. That would allow the Steelers’ defense to blossom into the unit it has the potential to be with newfound starters at both linebacker and within the secondary .
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