Alex Highsmith has been named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Steelers' 20-10 victory over the Saints.
Highsmith sacked Andy Dalton twice, including a strip sack and five total tackles.
This is the first time Highsmith has earned Player of the Week honors.
"It was cool," Highsmith said Wednesday at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. "The most important thing is we got the win this past Sunday. We've got a big week ahead of us with the Bengals, so I'm just looking forward to continuing to practice and continuing to get ready for this game."
Highsmith has needed to step up in the Steelers' defense with T.J. Watt missing seven games with a pectoral injury and minor knee surgery. He's recorded 8.5 sacks through nine games, which is tied for fourth in the NFL and already breaks his career high of six in 2021. He also has three forced fumbles, tied for second in the NFL.
Over the last 12 games, dating back to Week 16 of last season, Highsmith has recorded 11.5 sacks, which is tied for third-most in the league during that span. He has also recorded four strip sacks during that span, the most in the NFL during that time.
Highsmith is an effective pass rusher in his own right, but having Watt back in the fold makes the Steelers' front much more formidable.
"Having him back in the lineup, he brings so much energy to our lineup," Highsmith said. "I mean, first play of the game he was back there for a tackle for loss. His presence is definitely felt, and it was felt immediately in the Saints game. I know teams are preparing for that. It was just amazing having him back."
