Highsmith Is The Steelers Most Underrated Star

In a defense full of household names like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cam Heyward, it’s easy to overlook the man quietly wrecking game plans on the opposite edge. But make no mistake — Alex Highsmith isn’t just holding his own. He might be the most underrated player on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster.

Highsmith’s 2024 season was disrupted by injuries, limiting him to just 11 games. Despite the missed time, he still managed to post:

• 45 total tackles

• 6.0 sacks

• 1 forced fumble

• 2 passes defended

• 28 solo tackles

He missed time early in the season with a groin injury and later suffered an ankle sprain in Week 10 that sidelined him for multiple weeks. On the field, however, he remained a disruptive force — ranking among the league’s most efficient edge rushers in pressure rate. His 89.5 pass rush grade ranked him seventh among 211 qualified edge rushers last season, according to Pro Football Focus.

Highsmith’s impact goes beyond numbers. His ability to set the edge, drop into coverage, and create chaos in the backfield gives the Steelers unmatched flexibility. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin over the years, has leaned on him to disguise blitzes and rotate alignments — especially when Watt draws double teams.

With Cam Heyward aging and Watt navigating contract negotiations, Highsmith has stepped up as a vocal leader. He’s mentoring younger players like Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer, helping to shape the next generation of Pittsburgh’s linebacker corps.

Even in a shortened season, Alex Highsmith proved he’s more than just a complementary piece — he’s a cornerstone. If he stays healthy in 2025, one should not be surprised if he earns his first Pro Bowl nod and finally gets the recognition he’s long deserved.