4 most underrated Steelers heading into the 2021 season

EDGE Alex Highsmith

Some might argue that Alex Highsmith should be on the list of overrated players (considering that many are already dubbing him as the next great outside linebacker for the Steelers), but I would disagree. I don’t think Highsmith has drawn a lot of national buzz, but he could certainly exceed expectations in 2021.

Bud Dupree signed a lucrative new deal with the Tennesse Titans this offseason. Because of this, many are thinking the Steelers could take a big hit at their right edge position. While the depth is clearly an issue, I don’t know if Highsmith necessarily has a huge bar to climb. Dupree earned just 39.5 sacks in 6 seasons with the Steelers (just 6.5 per season). This is attainable for Highsmith – especially with T.J. Watt across from him (something Dupree didn’t have his first two seasons).

As a former college walk-on, Highsmith has not received the early recognition that a former first-round pick like Bud Dupree once did. Though Highsmith isn’t the same level athlete as Dupree, he might already be a more polished and versatile rusher with his combination of bend around the edge as well as a few go-to pass rush moves.

I think most fans are expecting Alex Highsmith to be a serviceable-to-solid replacement for Bud Dupree. But alongside a dominant defensive front and playing opposite of a two-time Defensive Player of the Year candidate, I think he can be more than that. He will be on the NFL’s radar soon enough.