Steelers' key starter dodges a bullet after scary-looking injury during win over Commanders

While everyone was going crazy following the game-winning TD grab and defensive stand by the Pittsburgh Steelers, there was something serious going on.  Alex Highsmith, who just returned from a groin injury and was having his presence felt all game against the Washington Commanders, went down with a scary-looking ankle injury.  Turns out, the timeline […]

Rob Gregson — NFL News Writer
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Nov 10, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) celebrates after a sack against the Washington Commanders during the first half at Northwest Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

While everyone was going crazy following the game-winning TD grab and defensive stand by the Pittsburgh Steelers, there was something serious going on. 

Alex Highsmith, who just returned from a groin injury and was having his presence felt all game against the Washington Commanders, went down with a scary-looking ankle injury. 

Turns out, the timeline is the best-case scenario for him and the Steelers:

Alex Highsmith expected to miss 2-3 weeks with ankle injury 

Steelers OLB Alex Highsmith having MRI today to determine extent of his ankle injury. Likely out 2-3 games. But Nick Herbig due back Sunday

– Gerry Dulac, Pittsburgh Post Gazette (Via Twitter-X)

If you watched the replay live, of which I will spare you the visual here in the text, it looked like one of the worst rolled ankles you can have. Highsmith couldn't put any weight on the ankle when leaving the field and he was seen on crutches after the game, only adding pessimism to a scary situation. 

So obviously, the news is a best-case scenario. The MRI will be the final determinant, and the Steelers tend to take it slow with injuries, so Highsmith could be out a month, but that's a lot better than a broken ankle and recovery timeline that places him out for the rest of the year. 

In the meantime, not only did the Steelers make what is now a critical acquisition of pass rusher Preston Smith, but they also are expecting the return of second-year standout Nick Herbig against the Baltimore Ravens. 

There is no replacing Alex Highsmith, and his impact will surely be missed as the Steelers head into three straight divisional matchups, but I'm sure the Steelers will take 2-3 weeks over 2-3 months. 

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