One player we thought might pass on OTAs was outside linebacker, Alex Highsmith. The third-year edge rusher is heading into year four coming off of his best NFL production and heading into the final year of his rookie contract.
But Highsmith was at OTAs on Tuesday, working hard and staying optimistic that he will get a new contract. Highsmith said there’s work being done by both sides and he just wanted to be out there working while things were getting done.
Highsmith also said one reason he is at OTAs is because he knows how hard it is to be a rookie getting acclimated to life in the NFL so he wanted to be there for the young guys.
“Coming in as a rookie is tough. It’s a whole new lifestyle, got study the playbook and be in meetings,” Highsmith said. “So just being there to just help him with what they need.”
In 2022, Highsmith finished with 14.5 sacks which led the Steelers and was a career high.