Alex Highsmith feels “really close” to 100 percent after “limited” snaps in Week 7

The Pittsburgh Steelers were missing half of their dynamic edge rusher duo of TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith in recent weeks leading up to Highsmith’s return in Week 7 against the New York Jets. He didn’t hit a sack, but he made his presence felt by pressuring Aaron Rodgers a couple of times.

His three pressures came on 42 snaps. When Highsmith is fully healthy, he typically plays about 85 percent of the defensive snaps. He played 74 percent in Week 7.

Highsmith was asked if he had regained some confidence upon his return after struggling with a recurring groin injury.

“In any case, I feel like I got through it okay,” Highsmith said in a video posted to X by Aaron Becker of Yardbarker. “It’s definitely quite painful at the moment. But like I said, I feel really good. This past week the number of snaps has been pretty limited, but I feel like I’m really, really close to 100%. So it just feels great to be back out there and be with the guys. Being hurt sucks.”

After suffering a groin injury in training camp, Highsmith’s injury aggravated about midway through the game in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Chargers. It wouldn’t have been that big of a deal to lose him with Nick Herbig as the No. 3 OLB, but he also got hurt. Then DeMarvin Leal was placed on IR with a neck injury. They relied on Jeremiah Moon, Eku Leota and Ade Ogundeji to fill the gaps.

It’s probably no coincidence that the Steelers had their two worst defensive performances without Highsmith. He had a borderline elite season last year in terms of pressure rate and interceptions, and he’s one of the best run defenders on the team. When pitting him against TJ Watt, teams can’t just avoid Watt all game without facing consequences.

Aside from DT Montravius ​​Adams, who was just placed on IR with a knee injury, the defense is in pretty good shape. Herbig should hopefully be available again after the bye week, and Cam Sutton will also be available after his suspension ends. As the defense continues to push to become the best unit in the league, Highsmith and the overall health of the unit will be very important.

Highsmith will likely face LT Joshua Ezeudu against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. He has only a handful of career starts, including one last week against the Philadelphia Eagles. He allowed two sacks and three total pressures in this game. Highsmith should be able to cause some problems against him.