Alex Highsmith Bio
Alex Highsmith is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Charlotte before being drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Since joining the Steelers, Highsmith has become a key defensive player known for his ability to make impactful plays.
Early Life and Background
Alex Highsmith was born on August 7, 1997, in Wilmington, North Carolina. He attended Eugene Ashley High School, where he was a multi-sport athlete participating in baseball, basketball, and football. In football, he played middle linebacker and fullback, earning second-team All-Area and first-team All-Mideastern Conference honors as a senior. He was also recognized for his baseball skills with All-Area honors.
Despite his athletic achievements, Highsmith was lightly recruited by college programs and received limited interest, mainly from Davidson and Furman. He ultimately accepted a walk-on opportunity at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he began his collegiate football career.
Path to American Football
Highsmith joined the Charlotte 49ers as a walk-on and redshirted his true freshman season. He gradually worked his way into the defensive rotation, playing in all 12 games as a redshirt freshman and recording 17 tackles and one sack. His role expanded during his redshirt sophomore year, contributing 33 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and a fumble recovery.
By his redshirt junior year, Highsmith became a starter at defensive end and earned first-team All-Conference USA honors after setting a school record with 17.5 tackles for loss. He continued to excel as a senior, again receiving first-team All-Conference USA recognition and being named a third-team All-American by the Associated Press. He set school records with 14 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss, solidifying his status as a top defensive prospect.
Alex Highsmith Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
Alex Highsmith was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round, 102nd overall, of the 2020 NFL Draft. He made his NFL debut that season and quickly made an impact. In week 8, he recorded his first career interception against the Baltimore Ravens. The following week, he earned his first sack against the Dallas Cowboys. Highsmith made his first career start in week 13 and finished the season as a starter, accumulating 28 tackles and two sacks.
In the 2021 season, Highsmith continued to develop as a key defensive player. He appeared in all 16 games as a starter, recording six sacks, 74 total tackles, and one forced fumble. His performance helped solidify his role in the Steelers’ defense.
Pittsburgh Steelers Breakthrough (2022–Present)
The 2022 season marked a breakout year for Highsmith. He opened the season with three sacks and a forced fumble in an overtime win against the Cincinnati Bengals. His standout performance continued in week 10 with two sacks, a forced fumble, and a tackle for loss, earning him the AFC Defensive Player of the Week award. He finished the season with a team-high 14.5 sacks, 63 tackles, and led the league with five forced fumbles.
In July 2023, Highsmith signed a four-year, $68 million contract extension with the Steelers, reflecting his value to the team. During the 2023 season, he recorded seven sacks, two interceptions including a touchdown return, and multiple forced fumbles. His performance earned him another AFC Defensive Player of the Week honor. In 2024 and 2025, Highsmith maintained strong defensive production with consistent sack totals and impactful plays, including a notable game in week 9 of 2025 with multiple tackles for loss and a forced fumble.
Driving Style and Strengths
Alex Highsmith is known for his aggressive pass-rushing ability and versatility on defense. He excels at creating pressure on quarterbacks and forcing turnovers. His combination of size, speed, and technique allows him to be effective against both the run and pass. Highsmith’s football intelligence and work ethic have made him a reliable asset in the Steelers’ defensive schemes.
Notable Events and Milestones
Highsmith’s career highlights include leading the NFL in forced fumbles in 2022 and setting multiple school records during his college career. His interception returned for a touchdown in 2023 was a key moment in a close victory, showcasing his playmaking ability. His contract extension in 2023 marked a significant milestone, affirming his status as a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense.
Alex Highsmith Career Wins
While individual wins are not typically tracked for defensive players, Highsmith’s contributions have been critical to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ victories since his arrival. His sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions have often shifted game momentum in favor of his team.
Other Wins & Performances
Highsmith’s college career was marked by multiple accolades including two first-team All-Conference USA selections and a third-team All-American honor. His consistent performance at Charlotte laid the foundation for his successful transition to the NFL.
Alex Highsmith Family
Personal Life
Alex Highsmith is married to Alyssa Ungrady. He is known to be a Christian and maintains a private personal life outside of football.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, Alex Highsmith continued to be a dominant force on defense for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His performance in week 9 included multiple tackles for loss, sacks, and a forced fumble that contributed to a crucial win over the Indianapolis Colts. Throughout the season, Highsmith’s consistent pressure and playmaking ability have kept him among the team’s defensive leaders. His ongoing partnership with the Steelers’ coaching staff and teammates positions him as a key contributor to the team’s defensive success moving forward.