The Pittsburgh Steelers have been going through some intense practices recently. On the first day of padded drills, rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson was carted off with an ankle injury. This was a major scare for Steelers fans, but there's some optimism that he might not miss too much time. As practice continues to get more intense and the season gets closer. More injury scares are popping up for Pittsburgh.
Michael Owens / Getty Images
Steelers' Alex Highsmith gets ready for a play to start during an away game.
On Tuesday, during practice, Alex Highsmith suffered a groin injury. Head Coach Mike Tomlin shared this news after the session when he spoke to members of the Pittsburgh media. Highsmith, one of the Steelers' top pass rushers and coming off a stellar season, is crucial to the defense.
In the 2023 season, T.J. Watt led the Steelers' defense with a league-best 19 sacks, while Highsmith contributed with seven sacks. Highsmith's presence helps balance the attention of opposing offenses, preventing them from focusing solely on Watt. When certain analytical outlets point that Watt may not experience some of the double teams that other star pass rushers face. It's largely because the Steelers have scary pass rushers outside of Watt such as Highsmith. Having him at full health is crucial for the Steelers defense in 2024.
Steelers Hopeful That Alex Highsmith's Injury Isn't Major
Steelers fans and the team will be closely monitoring updates on Highsmith's condition, hoping the injury isn't severe. Currently, there’s limited information available, but more details are expected soon. Injuries are an inevitable part of football, and while the situation is concerning, the team hopes this will be a minor issue that won't keep Highsmith out for long. However, a groin injury is never good this early into the new year.
Fred Vuich / Associated Press
Pittsburgh Steelers two headed, edge rushing monster - T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith celebrate a sack.
Steelers star defensive lineman Cam Heyward suffered a groin injury in Week 1 of the 2023 season, which caused him to miss several games and significantly impacted his performance. Although Highsmith's current injury is not directly comparable due to their different ages and the status being unknown, it does raise concerns. Heyward’s situation was particularly severe, as he required surgery after the season and admitted he was essentially playing on one leg.
NBC Sports
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward looks at the screen during a Pittsburgh Steelers' game.
Tomlin sort of downplayed the severity of Highsmith’s injury, expressing confidence that he will recover and be ok. However, Steelers fans are understandably anxious. Whenever a starter is sidelined, it’s natural to be concerned about the impact on the team. As the Steelers wait for more updates, they hope for a swift and full recovery for Highsmith, keeping fingers crossed that this injury does not hinder his performance or the team's overall strength. Steeler Nation will provide more details when Highsmith's injury status is more clear.
#SteelerNation
