Steelers Defense Gets a Boost With Highsmith’s Return
The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for their crucial matchup against the Cleveland Browns, and the team received a much-needed boost with the return of outside linebacker Alex Highsmith. Highsmith, who had been sidelined for the past three games due to an ankle injury, is ready to take the field and add his dynamic playmaking ability to the Steelers defense.
Highsmith Makes a Big Impact
Highsmith’s presence is a welcome relief for the Steelers defense, as it allows them to have more depth and rotate players effectively. T.J. Watt, fellow outside linebacker, highlighted Highsmith’s impact:
“Alex Highsmith is a playmaker,” said fellow outside linebacker T.J. Watt. “You think splash when you think of him. Big time plays in big time moments. To be able to have the depth that we have at outside linebacker, I feel very comfortable with having all four of us healthy, five if you include (Jeremiah) Moon as well.
Watt emphasized the importance of having a healthy rotation:
“It allows us to take a breather. You don’t have to play 90 plus percent of snaps which it feels like we’ve been playing this season. So, anytime I can get a breather and let (Nick) Herbig or Preston (Smith) go in there and get some good quality reps, it’s a benefit to all of us.”
Watt further explained the benefits of the rotation, noting that it allows him to focus on being at 100% when on the field.
“It’s a lot. It really is,” said Watt of the workload. “You watch film, and you self-evaluate, especially after the Thursday game when you have a weekend to really break down and self-evaluate, and just really look at percentages and plays and snaps I’m playing per game, and it’s too much.
“This past week, I tried to dial it back a little bit and we’re going to find a happy medium so when I’m out there, I’m going 100 percent all the time and not resting on the field.”
Tomlin Excited About The Depth
The return of Highsmith has Tomlin feeling confident about his defensive unit.
“It’s pretty exciting, isn’t it?” said Tomlin. “Let’s see where the roads lead.
“You can’t run out of rushmen. I’m so excited about the potential of getting Alex Highsmith back and the development of (Nick) Herbig, the acclimation of Preston (Smith). You can’t run out of rushmen, particularly in December.
“It’s exciting. Make no mistake, there’s enough work for all parties involved and we’re excited about sorting that out as we prepare.”
Browns Beware
Even with the addition of Highsmith, the Browns offensive coordinator understands the challenge posed by the Steelers defense:
“Obviously, he’s one of the top rushers in this league,” said Dorsey. “He generates pressure. He’s a high effort guy. He can win with speed, win with power, and with the depth they have at the position and then obviously (T.J.) Watt, on the other side, it’s a challenging combo.”
Stay Tuned for the Big Game
The Steelers and Browns face off in a crucial AFC North matchup. With Highsmith back in the fold, the Steelers defense is poised for a strong performance.
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