The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to have one of the best defenses in the NFL once again in 2025. While there has been plenty of turnover up and down the roster, many of the most important faces on Teryl Austin's lineup card are returning. There was a little bit of stress surrounding TJ Watt's contract situation, but the organization and 2021 AP Defensive Player of the Year finally agreed to terms on a long-term extension. His partner-in-crime, Alex Highsmith, often flies under the radar because he has to play opposite of one of the NFL's best edge rushers.
The 2025 season for the Steelers will depend on the health of the most important players. Both Watt and Highsmith fall under that category, which is why is has to be looked at as concerning that Highsmith suffered a groin injury on Sunday. Head Coach Mike Tomlin didn't have any kind of update, which should spark serious concern amongst the team's fan base.
Tomlin would typically approach the media and let the collective know that he isn't too worried about a specific player's injury. According to the social media post by 93.7 The Fan, however, the edge rusher may end up missing some time. If it was a simple tweak, Highsmith may have been reported to be good to go for Tuesday's practice, but there will not be another update until after that session.
Highsmith has been an underrated part of the Steelers' defense over the course of the last few years. The team does have depth at the position and there is no doubt that Watt is the number one piece that cannot be replaced, but Highsmith works well in Austin's system, so the hope is that this injury isn't as bad as it may seem on the surface.
Steelers Have The Personnel To Support Any Edge Rusher Injuries
While Watt and Highsmith are the two studs in the group, both Nick Herbig, and rookie Jack Sawyer, will be ready for their numbers to be called at any moment. If Highsmith's injury is somewhat severe, the two youngsters will have chances to make names for themselves as camp continues to progress. It would be unfortunate if Highsmith is out for an extended period of time, but the two back-ups are not half bad, and could be the best second-string duo in the entire NFL.
