Alex Highsmith, Pittsburgh Steelers rookie linebacker, was put in an unenviable position this season when he had to replace Bud Dupree. When Dupree tore his ACL, Highsmith was a starter and no player wants to be the man to replace the man.
To be 100 percent honest, Highsmith’s play during his first three NFL games was about what you would expect from a rookie who came into the league with questions about his technique and level of competition.
But Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, Highsmith’s game took a big step forward. Going back and reviewing the game, it was nice to see Highsmith use a variety of pass-rush moves, while at the same time having to contend with a team that worked hard to manage the football. Against the Cincinnati Bengals, Highsmith made some costly misreadings on the plays and sometimes seemed lost.
Highsmith finished the game with seven total tackles and two quarterback hits. He hasn’t landed a bag since he took over the starting point, but you can see him getting closer. Highsmith played with a lot of energy and although he may never be the player that Dupree is, it was great to see his game take another step on Sunday.