Monday night marked the third consecutive game that rookie outside linebacker Alex Highsmith has started since the team lost outside linebacker Bud Dupree to a season ending knee injury and while the third-round draft pick out of Charlotte was far from perfect in what ultimately was a disgusting road loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, he seemingly played well overall.
On Tuesday, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin held his weekly press conference and during it he was asked to comment on Highsmith’s play as a starter since taking over for the injured Dupree back in Week 13.
“I’ve been pleased with his efforts and his contribution and maturation through this process,” Tomlin said of Highsmith, who played all but three defensive snaps against the Bengals Monday night.