2022 was a career year for outside linebacker Alex Highsmith. In his third NFL season, Highsmith broke out for 14.5 sacks and shined when he was able to take advantage of the matchups while paired up with T.J. Watt.
Highsmith went into his third season with only 8.0 career sacks but flashed a tremendous amount of potential. He was the Steelers third-round pick in 2020 out of Charlotte and 2022 was his second season as a full-time starter.
Now, Highsmith heads into 2023 in the final season of his rookie deal and hoping to build on a year where he was one of the best pass rushers in the AFC from a statistical standpoint. Can he build on last season? If so, it will pay off for him in a big way.
Given the pending return of guys like Watt and defensive tackle Cam Heyward along with the upgrades the Steelers have made including rookie nose tackle Keeanu Benton, Highsmith should have matchups he a win but might not get enough opportunities with the pass rushers around him.
Cast your vote and tell us if you think Highsmith will be better or worse than last season.
