3 Steelers who have stood above the rest during the 2021 NFL preseason

2. EDGE Alex Highsmith

If Kevin Dotson has been the best overall player during the 2021 NFL preseason so far, then Alex Highsmith is a close second. While he has played somewhat sparingly in the first half of games over each of the three exhibition contests so far, Highsmith has made his presence felt in every game.

This doesn’t always translate to success in the box score, as his statistical production looks pedestrian. However, his explosive get-off and impressive blend of speed and power around the edge has forced quarterbacks to get the ball out of their hands quickly during the preseason.

Highsmith has graded out as Pittsburgh’s best defensive player in two of the three preseason contests so far, and it’s not very hard to see why. In addition to bringing the heat and collapsing the pocket on nearly every passing down, Highsmith has been disciplined against the run and has made several plays at or behind the line of scrimmage.

Alex Highsmith is still a young player and he needs to show that he can be just as impressive during the regular season. However, with T.J. Watt drawing attention across from him and Melvin Ingram keeping them both fresh. Highsmith and company could give opposing offenses fits this year.