Pittsburgh Steelers rookie goalkeeper Alex Highsmith was put in an unenviable position this season when he had to replace Bud Dupree. When Dupree broke his ACL, Highsmith started playing a starting role and no player wants to be the type to replace him.
Being 100 percent honest, Highsmith’s play during his first three NFL starts was almost what you would expect from a rookie who entered the league with some questions about his technique and level of competition.
But on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, Highsmith’s game took a big step forward. Going back and reviewing the game, it was nice to see Highsmith doing a variety of pass-rush moves and at the same time having to struggle with a team that worked hard to lead the football. Against the Cincinnati Bengals, Highsmith made some costly misreadings in running plays and sometimes seemed lost.
Highsmith finished the game with seven total attacks and two quarterback hits. He hasn’t landed a sack since he took over the starting spot, but you see him approaching. Highsmith played with a great level of energy and, although he may never be Dupree’s player, it was great to see his match go one step further on Sunday.