Summary

Alex Highsmith was selected in the 3rd Round (#102 Overall) in the 2020 Draft out of UNC Charlotte. Highsmith is a compelling edge defender whose primary strengths are his burst, arsenal of pass‑rush moves, relentless motor, and ability to create splash plays. His weakest areas — anchor strength, edge‑setting in the run game, reach/length limitations and consistency in an every‑down role — are not fatal flaws but do mark the areas that separate very good from elite at his position. With continued development, he has the tools to be among the top in his role.

Strengths

• Quick first step and burst off the edge: Highsmith consistently shows explosive effort at the snap, able to gain separation quickly. His ability to bend the edge, dip his shoulder and convert speed into pass‑rush moves is a key asset. Prime Time Sports Talk

• Pass‑rush repertoire & hand usage: He uses a variety of moves (swim, rip, spin) and shows good timing with his hands to disengage blockers. High anticipation, good plan of attack: recognizes lineman tendencies and adapts. steelersdepot.com

• Motor, effort and production mindset: From a walk‑on to starter, his work ethic stands out. He plays with urgency, chase down‑the‑ball‑carrier attitude, not just a passive rusher.

• Versatility & scheme flexibility: Comfortable as a stand‑up edge or hand‑in‑the‑dirt rusher; fits in multiple fronts and can contribute in obvious passing downs and generate splash plays (sacks, forced fumbles).

Weaknesses

• Size / anchor strength limitations: At ~248 lbs and average arm length, he lacks the pure mass and reach of many elite edge rushers, which can hinder him against big tackles or when setting the edge in the run game. Sometimes the lack of functional strength shows in block‑shed or when he gets engaged. Last Word On Sports

• Run‑defense and edge‑setting consistency: While productive as a pass rusher, his impact in the run game and ability to hold up against power is less consistent. Some scouting flagged he’s more splash‑ vs‑sustain‑oriented. steelersdepot.com

• Length / leverage vs top tackles: His arm length and reach are below prototypical for the position; this can make disengagement harder and limit his hold of the edge. Can get “square” at times when trying to rush the passer, exposing more of his chest and making him easier to block. steelcityunderground.com

• Consistency in all‑down role: Early in his career, some evaluators projected him more as a situational edge rusher rather than full every‑down starter because of size/strength concerns. Needs to continue refining the run game and block‑shedding to elevate his ceiling.

Role & Outlook

Highsmith projects as a high‑impact edge rusher and key defensive piece for Pittsburgh. His best role involves being used as a strike‑rusher (pass downs, three‑man rushes) and gradually expanding into more snaps if strengthened and refined. He’s already a reliable sack‑threat and difference‑maker on obvious passing downs. If he adds functional strength, improves run‑defense consistency, and continues to expand his toolkit, he can become a full‑time premier edge rusher (not just situational).