5 Steelers that will have better statistics during the 2022 season

Alex Highsmith will become what the Steelers need on the edge

Alex Highsmith is a player that many are still looking for more from. He had a solid 2021 season as the first year of being the full-time starter opposite of T.J. Watt. He did an admirable job and might have missed out on some plays because Watt was well on his way to breaking records and winning the Defensive Player of the Year award.

This Charlotte product has continuously grown since being drafted by the Steelers and should have a big season ahead. Watt will get the production at a high level, but Highsmith will show up more in the stat department. Pittsburgh has high expectations for this player as they hope he can become a Bud Dupree type.

One aspect of his game that people do not give him enough credit for is run defense. Holding the edge is no small task and the black and gold need more players like him to do that job. This defense struggled last year against the run, but Highsmith should help stop that issue.

This is year three for this player and he should be able to come out full tilt against the rest of the NFL. He has all the skills necessary to become the next Dupree if he can get in the backfield and produce. This is a pass rushing defense and this player should help that cause.