Alex Highsmith, a defensive standout for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is increasingly gaining recognition for his exceptional ability to defend against the run. Despite often being perceived as playing a secondary role to star teammate T.J. Watt, Highsmith's performance on the field consistently demonstrates his significant contribution to the team's defensive strength. His dedication and skill in stopping opposing offenses on the ground have not gone unnoticed, particularly as he approaches a pivotal point in his career regarding contract negotiations.
Pro Football Network (PFN) recently underscored Highsmith's value by ranking him seventh among all NFL edge defenders in run defense for the 2025 season. This impressive evaluation, based on PFN's proprietary EDGE Impact metric, awarded Highsmith a score of 84.0. This places him in an elite group, with only a handful of players like Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, and Will Anderson Jr. scoring higher. The metric emphasizes his critical role in stifling ground attacks, a less glamorous but equally vital aspect of defensive play. His consistent ability to hold the edge and prevent runners from breaking free has made him an indispensable component of the Steelers' defensive line.
Fans of the Steelers have long observed Highsmith's consistent and impactful play. He is known for his powerful hand usage, his ability to effectively set the edge, and his knack for ensuring running backs find no easy routes around the defensive perimeter. While his playing style might not always be flashy, his fundamental soundness and discipline are highly valued by his coaches and respected by his opponents. Offensive tackles consistently acknowledge the challenge Highsmith presents, especially when the Steelers' strategy involves funneling ball carriers towards the sidelines, where Highsmith excels at making crucial stops.
Highsmith's proficiency in run defense is expected to remain a cornerstone of the Steelers' defensive game plan in the upcoming 2026 season. His presence allows the team to employ strategic rotations, integrating players like Nick Herbig into pass-rushing situations, thereby maintaining pressure on quarterbacks while preserving the fresh legs of key defenders. This flexibility is crucial for sustaining a high level of play throughout the season, ensuring that the defense remains tough and effective on early downs, which are often critical for stopping drives. Highsmith's discipline and versatility are key assets that enhance the overall strategic options for the Steelers' front office.
Beyond his on-field performance, Highsmith faces a significant period of contract discussions. Entering a season where his future deal is paramount, speculation about his longevity with the Steelers has intensified. This has been particularly fueled by recent trade discussions and the team's substantial investment in other players, raising questions about whether the Steelers might consider capitalizing on his trade value before his next contract. Although his current contract extends through the 2027 season, the Steelers typically aim to re-sign their core players in the year prior to their contract expiration. If a new agreement isn't reached, Highsmith could effectively be showcasing his talents for other NFL teams next season.
Nevertheless, the prevailing sentiment is that Highsmith will continue to be a vital part of the Pittsburgh Steelers for the current season. Given the team's defensive philosophy, which heavily relies on dominating the line of scrimmage, trading away a top-tier run defender of Highsmith's caliber would be an unexpected and potentially counterproductive move. His foundational role in bolstering the defense against the run is too critical to be dismissed lightly, especially for a team built on winning upfront and maintaining a strong defensive presence.
