One of the most valuable commodities a football team can have, at least behind that of a true franchise quarterback, is a true pair of high-quality bookend pass rushers. The Pittsburgh Steelers already know that they are at least halfway there with reigning Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt. They are hoping this is the year that Alex Highsmith solidifies his status as they stalwart bookend.
A 2020 third-round draft pick, Highsmith moved into the starting lineup on a full-time basis last season after Bud Dupree left in free agency. Following a dominant camp, however, he tweaked his groin heading into the opener, and one can surmise that that limited his ability to come out of the gates strong.