Alex Highsmith High on Steelers Defense

by Bo Marchionte
@bomarchionte | College2Pro.com
Published July 7, 2025, 2:33 PM

LATROBE, Pa. — With bags slung over shoulders and expectations weighing just as heavy, the Pittsburgh Steelers reported to Saint Vincent College today for the start of training camp. But if their offseason transactions are any indication, the weight they’re carrying is matched by the firepower they’re bringing especially on defense.

The Steelers’ defense finished sixth in the NFL in points allowed per game (18.5) and tied for fifth in takeaways (27) during the 2024 season. Yet despite those solid numbers, they were in the middle of the pack in passing yards allowed (16th) and struggled with consistency in the secondary against top-tier quarterbacks. Those concerns now feel more like distant memories than looming issues.

Since March, General Manager Omar Khan has made it clear the team is not interested in incremental progress they’re hunting for dominance. The additions of seven-time All-Pro Jalen Ramsey, six-time All-Pro Darius Slay, and veteran tight end Jonnu Smith signal an all-in mentality.

And that competition isn’t just helping the defense it’s sharpening the offense too.

“Obviously gel, this is the time to do it,” said offensive tackle Troy Fautanu, when asked how this team stacks up on paper. “Because we’re going against, I think, the best defense in the NFL. So, I mean, what a way to come out here and go through that adversity, really.”

There’s no shortage of confidence. And more importantly no lingering contract drama either.

With T.J. Watt’s contract extension finalized before camp opened, there’s no uncertainty hovering over the franchise cornerstone. Watt enters the season healthy, hungry, and surrounded by the deepest group of defensive playmakers Pittsburgh has assembled in years.

“I think we got a lot of great pieces on our defense,” said Alex Highsmith. “You know, from every single position group. It all starts tomorrow and how we gel, how we get better every single day. And so, I think that’s just the goal: just get better every single day.”

That blend of humility and quiet swagger sums up this roster well. The new-look secondary isn’t just experienced it’s elite. Slay and Ramsey bring 13 All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowls between them, instantly transforming the defensive backfield. Their presence should free up third-year corner Joey Porter Jr., who impressed last season but often drew WR1 assignments without much help. Now, he’s part of a coverage trio that could rival any in the NFL.

There’s a recurring theme to the team’s mentality: adversity, yes but the kind that forges something dangerous. Something championship-worthy.

Throw in Cameron Heyward’s return, the depth at linebacker with Cole Holcomb and Payton Wilson, and a potentially breakout season from rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, and the Steelers’ defense doesn’t just look good on paper it looks intimidating.

Of course, none of it matters unless it translates into January success. But for now, optimism is warranted. This isn’t a group trying to prove it belongs. It’s a unit preparing to prove it’s the best.

And if you ask Alex Highsmith, that proof starts now.

Photo Credit Frank Hyatt/College2Pro.com