One year after turning in a strong first season as a starter in the black and gold, Pittsburgh Steelers’ third-year outside linebacker Alex Highsmith is poised for a breakout season opposite reigning Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt.
After taking over for Bud Dupree last season as the starter opposite Watt, Highsmith emerged as a strong run defender overall and quietly developed into a consistent pass rusher, turning in 74 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks, 15 quarterback hits and one forced fumble in 16 games overall.
Those numbers might not be eye-popping overall, but they were part of a strong first season as a starter for the former third-round pick out of Charlotte.