Steelers’ Alex Highsmith Not Happy About 2023 Performance

The Pittsburgh Steelers' pass rush has been exceptionally strong, thanks in large part to the dynamic duo of Alex Highsmith and TJ Watt. Watt, who led the NFL with 19 sacks in the 2023 season, has consistently been a nightmare for opposing offenses. 

Highsmith also had an impressive season, finishing with seven sacks, 34 solo tackles, and two forced fumbles. Despite his standout performance and recognition as one of the top defensive players in the league, Highsmith remains dissatisfied with his contribution from last season.

In a recent appearance on the Green Light with Chris Long podcast, Highsmith discussed his training camp preparations and his expectations for the upcoming Steelers season. During the conversation, Highsmith revealed his relentless drive and competitive mindset. Even though he was a dominant force throughout the 2023 season, he wasn’t content with just seven sacks and is determined to elevate his game even further.

"Sometimes, when I feel like when I'm rushing well, there was a couple games I felt like I was rushing really well last year and beating my guy and just didn't hit home. But for me, it's just keeping my head and keeping my confidence and knowing who I am," Highsmith said. "Knowing I had that 14-sack year like I did a couple of years ago, that gives me the confidence to know that's the type of player I am. And even last year, there were some times where I felt I was rushing better than a couple of years ago, even though the numbers didn't show it."

Highsmith felt that despite his improved quarterback pressure in the 2023 season, his statistics didn’t fully reflect his performance. After recording 14.5 sacks in 2022, he knows he has the potential to exceed even that mark. Highsmith is not content with his previous achievements and is driven by a relentless desire for more. 

He aspires to match the level of production achieved by his teammate, Watt, and believes that this drive is what distinguishes him as a top player. His unwavering mindset and hunger to prove his capabilities fuel his determination to elevate his game even further in the 2024 season.

"Don't get me wrong, I'm not content at all with 14.5, not content with seven, no matter how many. That's the mindset I want to have, and I want to always get better," Highsmith said. "I think that's what kills guys in this league, they get complacent. So I never wanna be that type of guy. I wanna always be striving for more and always be striving to get better."

Watt and Highsmith form an exceptional duo that consistently challenges opposing offenses, earning widespread recognition from pundits across the league. Watt’s ability to generate pressure not only ensures he makes a significant impact but also creates ample opportunities for Highsmith. 

With defenses focusing on Watt, Highsmith is poised to capitalize on these openings and aims to set a new career sack record in the upcoming season.

Steelers' Alex Highsmith Has Another Level He Can Play At

Steelers fans are already well aware of Highsmith’s impressive performance during the 2023 season. The prospect of him tapping into an even higher level of play is incredibly exciting. Pittsburgh’s defense, one of the highest-paid in the NFL, is packed with talent at every position. 

The recent addition of linebacker Patrick Queen is expected to further enhance opportunities for Highsmith, allowing him to make more game-changing plays and increase his sack total in 2024. With Highsmith’s relentless drive and determination, Steelers fans eagerly anticipate watching him excel and dominate this season.

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