Alex Highsmith Limited Again: Steelers Week 7 Pass-Rush Outlook vs. Saints
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith remained a limited participant Thursday because of a groin injury, matching his Wednesday workload after he missed the Week 6 loss at Tampa Bay. He has not yet received a final Week 7 game designation for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints in Paris.
The repeated limited sessions keep a return in play, but they do not guarantee a normal snap count. Friday's final injury report and Sunday's inactive list remain the two decisive checkpoints for Pittsburgh's edge rotation and for fantasy managers using Highsmith in IDP formats.
What changed Thursday
Highsmith practiced on a limited basis for the second straight day. That is meaningful progress compared with a full absence from game action last week, but Pittsburgh has not upgraded him to full participation.
The Steelers also listed T.J. Watt as limited Thursday with a calf issue after he sat Wednesday for rest, while Cameron Heyward received another rest day. Wide receiver Ben Skowronek and cornerback Brandin Echols have already been ruled out. The defense's front therefore enters international travel with several workload questions still unresolved.
Highsmith's 2026 production
Highsmith has recorded 11 tackles and three sacks this season. All three sacks came during Pittsburgh's first two games, including a two-sack performance in the opener and another sack against New England.
Even when the box-score totals slow down, his presence matters because Pittsburgh can distribute rushes among Highsmith, Watt, Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer. The Steelers' initial depth chart placed Herbig and Sawyer behind the two veteran starters, giving the defense legitimate rotational options if Highsmith is active but not ready for his usual workload.
Why the Saints matchup matters
New Orleans quarterback Tyler Shough has completed 153 of 235 passes for 1,443 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. He has been sacked 13 times for 98 lost yards, so Pittsburgh's edge pressure has a realistic path to influence the game.
The Saints listed Shough as a full participant Thursday despite a left-hand issue. Starting guard Cesar Ruiz missed both Wednesday and Thursday with a knee injury, creating another protection variable to monitor before kickoff.
If Highsmith plays, Pittsburgh can rotate four edge defenders and keep its rush fresh against an offense that has attempted 235 passes. If he sits, Herbig is the most direct replacement candidate, with Sawyer remaining part of the rotation.
IDP fantasy football recommendation
Highsmith is a risk-reward DL2 or LB3 only if he is active. His sack upside is real, but two limited practices leave snap volume uncertain.
Managers with safer every-down options should wait for Friday's designation rather than assuming Highsmith will immediately resume a full workload.
Herbig is a speculative stash, not an automatic start. His value rises sharply only if Highsmith is ruled out or reports indicate a strict snap limit.
Watt remains the priority Pittsburgh pass rusher in IDP formats, but his new calf listing also deserves a Friday check.
What to watch before kickoff
Friday practice participation and Highsmith's official game designation.
Whether Watt advances from limited participation or carries a designation of his own.
The Saints' final status for Ruiz, whose absence would affect interior protection.
Sunday's inactive list and any pregame report describing Highsmith's expected snap count.
For now, Highsmith's second limited practice is a positive sign, not full clearance. Pittsburgh's pass rush has enough depth to manage his workload, but the difference between active and fully available will matter against a high-volume Saints passing game.
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