Steelers star player has high hopes for 2024

The numbers in 2023 did not meet Alex Highsmith’s expectations.

After recording 14.5 sacks in 2022, his total fell to seven in 2023.

“I don’t think it was my best year,” Highsmith said after the season.

However, it’s not always about the numbers.

That is something Highsmith must remind himself of, as he can be his own worst critic.

“I believe I improved in a variety of ways. Highsmith admitted that she sometimes puts too much pressure on herself. “It gets to my head when, for example, I know my sack numbers were lower this year than last year. But I felt like I was rushing as well, if not better, with pressures and such.

“But sometimes the numbers game and stats get to my head. The games in which I played best, the games in which I went out and performed best, were those in which I played free and just went out there and had fun, not worrying about the pressure, but just going out and doing what I love to do, what God has blessed me to do, which was to play football.

“I know that if I just go out there and prepare as best I can, and then go out and play, I will perform at my best.

I hold myself to a higher standard. I am constantly striving to improve myself. That’s what I strive for.

Highsmith admitted that it is not always easy to avoid thinking about the numbers, but it is the only way to make it work.

“It is hard. “You can’t get caught up in the comparison thing,” Highsmith explained. “Knowing how far I’ve come and what I’ve accomplished in the league so far gives me confidence.” I know I’ve had double-digit sacks. I’ve caused forced fumbles. I’ve made a number of plays. “That is what gives you confidence.”