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The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively working on securing a long-term contract extension with pass-rusher Alex Highsmith.
The talented player, who had a breakout season last year, is set to enter the final year of his current contract. With negotiations already underway, both Highsmith and the Steelers organization are optimistic about reaching an agreement.
Alex Highsmith’s impressive performance during the previous season cannot be overlooked. The 6’4″ and 242-pound pass-rusher accumulated an impressive 14.5 sacks, making him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Additionally, he led the entire league with five forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Highsmith’s remarkable contributions have clearly caught the attention of the Steelers’ front office, who want to lock him up long-term.
Expressing his desire to remain with the team, Highsmith stated, “I want to be here. It’s going to work out.” The pass-rusher confirmed ongoing negotiations have started and remains positive about them. He believes that a favorable outcome will be reached.
Highsmith adds that he’ been in contact with other players who have navigated similar situations and has also sought advice from his agent, further fueling his confidence: “I think everything is going to work out.”
Steelers’ General Manager, Omar Khan, recently expressed his commitment to retaining young and promising players. When asked about Highsmith’s extension, Khan emphasized the team’s tendency to hold onto talented individuals rather than allowing them to depart. This sentiment bodes well for Highsmith’s future with the organization.
“I think you guys know our history when we have a young, up-and-coming player … we don’t like to let those guys go.”
The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly has weighed in on the contract extension discussions. Kaboly speculates that Highsmith could potentially command a salary of $17 million per season, accompanied by significant guarantees in the second year of the extension.
Considering Highsmith’s remarkable performance last season, his potential, and the production on the field despite the absence of star pass-rusher T.J. Watt for ten games, it appears likely that the negotiations will yield positive results.
Drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft from the University of Charlotte, Highsmith has recorded a total of 22.5 sacks in his 49-game career, along with 185 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 41 quarterback hits. Highsmith’s collegiate career was also marked by success, culminating in his final year at Charlotte, where he amassed an impressive 15 sacks.
The 25-year-old Linebacker has immense potential and is on the verge of a significant payday. The impending long-term extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers not only signifies the team’s commitment to retaining talented players but also acknowledges Highsmith’s contributions to the team’s defensive success.