4 Steelers that the team must build around for 2021 success

Alex Highsmith

While TJ Watt is the obvious star on defense, this team is already planning around him and with him being the on this defense long term. The team is already building around him, which means he isn’t eligible for this list. Instead, fellow edge rusher Alex Highsmith has some high potential as well, and with the team set to have some decent cap space in the next few years with the impending retirement of Ben Roethlisberger, they could realistically afford two top pass rushers.

Now, a lot of his future will depend on how he does as a full-time starter next season. Highsmith flashed his rookie year though, which means with a full offseason under his belt, he should be ready to take on NFL offenses next year. One of the biggest concerns with him coming out of college was his strength, so a full offseason should do him wonders as he focuses on getting stronger. He already has a decent pass-rushing skill set, which means he could be in store for a huge season next year.

If he takes off, the Steelers defense should be close to elite just as it was when Bud Dupree was playing at his best across from Watt. Having two capable pass rushers makes any defense’s job easier, and if the Steelers can plan on keeping both for the long term, it should lead to sustained defensive success for the foreseeable future. Highsmith is bursting with potential, and the Steelers will be wise to build around him and Watt as the center of their defense.