Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith missed six games during the 2024 season, including three with a groin injury. The other three followed an ankle injury suffered against Washington.
Highsmith was bothered by a groin concern in training camp and has not played in the Steelers’ first two preseason games.
On Tuesday, Highsmith returned to practice alongside Cam Heyward, who has decreased reps later in camp due to a contract dispute. It was the first time Highsmith had practiced in two weeks.
Mike Tomlin said after practice that Highsmith is working his way back to being available. He wasn’t ruled out of the team’s final preseason game on Thursday night in Carolina. Tomlin confirmed Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, and Heyward won’t suit up, but all other healthy players will be considered.
Highsmith also missed one game in 2021 with a tweaked groin. He played 11 games in 2024, totaling six sacks and nine tackles for loss. Highsmith played every game from 2021-2023 before his recent groin concerns.
The Steelers begin the 2025 regular season against the New York Jets on September 7.
