One Steelers player shines in first public training camp practice

The Pittsburgh Steelers held their first training camp practice open to the public on July 28th. Here’s how one player stood above the rest. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers reported to training camp early last week at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex in Pittsburgh. However, their first practice open to the public didn’t take place until July 28th at Heinz Field.

Anxious fans awaited the arrival of their team after nearly seven months away from Steelers football, and they weren’t disappointed. As always, Ben Roethlisberger made a few plays that had the crowd roaring, while rookie running back Najee Harris drew a great deal of attention as he busted off a few big runs that got everyone excited. However, the star of Pittsburgh’s first training camp practice open to the public was edge defender, Alex Highsmith.

Highsmith was praised throughout the day by Pittsburgh media for his impressive plays behind the line of scrimmage – both in run defense and rushing the passer. One particular play of his caused an uproar, as Highsmith effortlessly toasted rookie offensive tackle, Dan Moore, on a beautiful inside spin move.

While Highsmith’s first 2021 Steelers training camp practice in front of a crowd was thoroughly impressive, it’s not completely unexpected.

Alex Highsmith picking up where he left off for Steelers

As a former college walk-on, Highsmith had to fight tooth and nail to get to where he is today. It’s because of this determination that he wasn’t going to let the recent signing of Melvin Ingram intimidate him.

Ingram has spoken fondly of Highsmith since joining the team. The former 3-time Pro Bowler was recently asked about being paired with T.J. Watt in a recent media session, but was sure to include Highsmith in his praise, saying ‘you can’t forget about 5-6 either though’ and that ‘he’s definitely special.’

Now it appears that Alex Highsmith is picking up right where he left off in 2020. While the former third-round pick didn’t exactly light up the box score when filling in for the injured Bud Dupree, he earned a very respectable grade from Pro Football Focus, and his play seemed advanced beyond his years.

With a full year of NFL conditioning under his belt and a few more moves added to his arsenal, Highsmith seems ready to go for the Steelers this season. At this rate, it’s going to be difficult for even a player as talented as Melvin Ingram to cut into his workload, and he seems to be doing everything right so far.

Of course, it’s important to remember that this was just one practice and that there could be good days and bad days along the way. However, with the way his teammates and coaches have praised him so far, I think there is plenty of reason to believe that he could be a very good player for this team in 2021.

I will have my eyes on Alex Highsmith and the rest of the team as Steelers training camp presses on. Be sure to follow us as we continue to bring you the latest coverage.