Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith. Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Why Steelers should extend LB Alex Highsmith this offseason

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 1/23/23

Steelers LB Alex Highsmith put together the best season of his career in 2022. With his rookie contract set to expire after next season, should Pittsburgh try to extend him this offseason?

It wouldn't be a bad idea, especially if he plays as well or even better in 2023. Highsmith had the sixth-most sacks (14.5) in the NFL and a league-leading five forced fumbles.

Big year for Smitty @Gatorade | @highsmith34 pic.twitter.com/XdCY17TBz1
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 23, 2023

Pittsburgh a number of holes to fill throughout its roster. Signing Highsmith to a long-term contract sooner than later would provide some stability and one less position to worry about.

Acting quickly would also be wise when considering the third-year linebacker's price will likely only rise.

#Steelers LB Alex Highsmith is turning into one of the best 3rd round picks in recent years in #NFL
14.5 Sacks (6th in the NFL) and 5 Forced Fumbles (Tied for 1st in the NFL)
AND he's only 25 years old
— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) January 9, 2023

If the Steelers decide to do so, they will solidify their edge-rushing duo for at least the next few years. The team signed LB T.J. Watt to a five-year contract in 2021.

Highsmith's third season was all the more impressive with Watt missing seven games. He wasn't a household name before this year, but he certainly made himself known.

"I'm just so grateful for this year," Highsmith said. "I feel like it was a big jump for me, and that's just really what I wanted to do going into this year, just really taking that third-year jump. It gave me a lot of confidence. So, look forward to building on it for next year."

More must-reads: