Alex Highsmith’s absence from practice relates to a defense on the rise

The Pittsburgh Steelers returned to the win column with a Week 9 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Pittsburgh lost two games on Sunday. But perhaps more importantly, the Steelers’ struggling defense stepped up. Pittsburgh Road Daniel Jones’ redemption arc pendingchanging the Colts’ QB five times in Week 9.

It was an official game for the Steelers, who remain atop the AFC North at 5-3 despite the team’s disappointing defensive play during the first half of the season. Unfortunately, Pittsburgh faces another injury concern after a strong showing.

Alec Highsmith appeared on the team injury report on Wednesday, according to The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo. The Steelers’ star running back missed practice with an ankle ailment.

It’s too early to tell if Wednesday’s DNP will affect the sixth-year veteran’s availability in Week 10. However, the injury is a cause for concern because Highsmith suffered a high ankle sprain earlier this season it sidelined him for two games.

Alex Highsmith added the injury report ahead of Week 10

Highsmith was forced to leave the Steelers’ Week 2 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks early with an injury. Although he avoided IR, which would have cost him at least four games, Highsmith missed time with a sprain.

In Week 9, the former third-round pick enjoyed the Colts. Highsmith sacked Jones twice and forced a fumble while picking up four tackles. It was part of the defensive effort that Aaron Rodgers described getting the “big elephant” off his back.

The The Steelers went all-in this offseasonadding Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Ramsey and Darius Slay, among others. Results during the first nine weeks were mixed. But with the AFC North stumbling out of the gate, Pittsburgh has managed to control the division thus far.

Still, the Steelers expected to boast a difference-making defensive unit. Instead, the team ranks 30th in total defense and 32nd against the pass. The situation became even more dire when safety DeShon Elliott suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 8.

Pittsburgh responded by adding Kyle Dugger in a trade with the New England Patriots. The presence of a veteran defensive back, along with Jalen Ramsey’s versatility in the secondary, helped stabilize the unit.

The Week 9 effort was a step in the right direction for the Steelers. But Mike Tomlin and the company can’t afford to lose Highsmith for Sunday night’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers.