Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker, Alex Highsmith, just wrapped up his third season with the Steelers in glorious fashion. While the Steelers may not have made the playoffs on Sunday, Highsmith continued to make his case for a solid extension offer from the team.
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker, Alex Highsmith (#56) pre-snap against the Indianapolis Colts on December 27, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Steelers.com)
The Steelers were able to beat the Cleveland Browns 14-28 in Pittsburgh and Highsmith had a tremendous game. He had 8.5 tackles and 2.5 sacks against the division rival. Unfortunately, the rest of the necessary NFL stars did not align, as the New York Jets could not do the one job they were given and beat a Tua-free Miami Dolphins team. This put the Steelers out of contention for the last playoff spot, despite doing their part.
Steelers' Highsmith Wants to Stay in Pittsburgh
Highsmith has flourished over the past three seasons into a Pro Bowl level player, improving each season. Prior to the start of this season, he said that he wanted a double-digit sack season. Despite the defense having some struggles prior to the bye week, he managed to make that a reality and more.
He ended the season with 63 total tackles, 38 of them solo, 14.5 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles. While the Steelers have a ton of free agents to address this year, it is hard to imagine that head coach, Mike Tomlin and general manager, Omar Khan, won’t prioritize keeping Highsmith in black and gold.
Highsmith spoke to the press following the Steelers' win over the Browns. Of course, he was asked about the contract extension and what kind of advice players who have gone through this recently have given him - referring to Minkah Fitzpatrick and Diontae Johnson. Per Chris Adamski’s tweet, Highsmith had this to say:
“It helps some, you know, just to see how they handled it and everything like that. I’m just thankful for the journey I’ve had so far. Just being able to take a step this year in my third year. I'm just really excited to have this opportunity where I am. I am just really thankful.”
Make that 7 sacks in 6 career games versus the Browns! Hope you enjoyed your meal son! 😤😤😤😤Grandma and Grandaddy dancing up there today!! 🙏🏽🖤🙏🏽💛🙏🏽 https://t.co/Te4OwR1eyy pic.twitter.com/GHBuKAhzP2
— Sam Highsmith (@HighsmithHigh5) January 8, 2023
He has already become one of the Steelers' all-time sack leaders, having 14.5 or more in a single season, joining an illustrious list that includes T.J. Watt (3x over), James Harrison, and Mike Merriweather. That ties him for 5th place, with Watt, on the franchise list.
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 13: Linebacker Mike Merriweather #57 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs with the football after intercepting a pass by quarterback Joe Montana of the San Francisco 49ers during a game at Three Rivers Stadium on September 13, 1987 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steelers defeated the 49ers 30-17. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)
It would be a huge mistake to only consider Highsmith’s sack numbers; he is so much more than that. He is tough against the run and finds ways to constantly disrupt the offense. He reminds you of a Dick LeBeau era player that just sniffs out the ball on every play. Of those 63 tackles that were mentioned, 12 of them have been for a loss.
Highsmith’s stock has steadily been on the rise since entering the NFL. He displays a kind of grit and determination that is a perfect fit for the Steelers and their smash-mouth style of football. Highsmith, who was a walk-on at UNC-Charlotte, plays with a chip on his shoulder - in the best possible way. He appears to take none of this for granted and you see the effort every time he steps on the field.
Pittsburgh needs to make him a Steeler for life.
What kind of extension do you think Highsmith should be offered? How do you think the organization should prioritize extensions with free agency? Make sure to click to comment below!
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