The Pittsburgh Steelers’ rough Week 2 loss to Seattle just got worse. Starting outside linebacker Alex Highsmith suffered a high ankle sprain and will miss 4–6 weeks. He initially hurt his ankle in practice on Friday before aggravating it during the game. But the Steelers have already secured his replacement, signing veteran linebacker DeMarvin Leal to fill the void.

DeMarvin Leal’s 2025 season didn’t begin the way he envisioned. The former third-round pick found himself on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad, a disappointing reality for a player once viewed as a building block. But injuries have suddenly reshaped his path. With Alex Highsmith sidelined by a high ankle sprain and Isaiahh Loudermilk on injured reserve, Leal is back on the 53-man roster. He knows this might be his final opportunity to prove he belongs in the Steelers squad.

Speaking with refreshing honesty about his situation, he added, “The season didn’t start the way I wanted it to, but it shall finish the way I want it to,” he told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. This determination reflects his understanding of the stakes. After being waived before the end of his rookie contract—a rare move for a Steelers third-round pick—Leal now faces a make-or-break moment. His career statistics reveal why Pittsburgh hesitated: 432 snaps, 33 tackles, one sack, and four passes defensed over three seasons.

The Texas A&M product has always been a positional puzzle. Too small for defensive line yet too big for edge, he’s struggled to find his natural fit. This offseason, the Steelers committed to converting him to outside linebacker despite his added weight. Leal believes he’s found his groove. “I definitely have made some strides at the edge,” he explained. “Just being there, being more comfortable, getting back into my bag just being a straight edge, so it’s been good. I can’t wait to show it.” His preseason flashes showed potential, though he clearly remained in transition.

Coaches have simplified his role for now. “They just want me to help stop the run, help make this defense be what it should be and what it can be,” Leal revealed. With Nick Herbig starting and rookie Jack Sawyer providing depth, Leal must capitalize on limited snaps. His practice squad stint gave him time to refine his edge technique, but only game action will reveal true progress.

Mike Tomlin delivers mixed injury news ahead of Patriots matchup

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin provided crucial injury updates during his Tuesday press conference. He delivered both concerning and optimistic news about his defensive unit. The biggest revelation involved linebacker Alex Highsmith. Contrary to initial reports, Highsmith did not suffer a high ankle sprain. This development significantlys improves his recovery timeline. Tomlin confirmed Highsmith and defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk are already ruled out for Sunday’s game against New England. However, Highsmith could potentially return for the Week 4 matchup in Ireland against Minnesota.

Tomlin also addressed other key defensive players. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and safety DeShon Elliott remain questionable for Sunday. Their availability will depend on how they progress throughout practice week. The coach mentioned that both players need to demonstrate recovery before earning clearance. Notably absent from Tomlin’s update was rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. This omission suggests the rookie might remain sidelined until after Pittsburgh’s Week 5 bye.

The Steelers face immediate challenges against New England. Losing Highsmith and Loudermilk weakens their pass rush significantly. Pittsburgh must rely on depth players stepping up unexpectedly. The potential absence of Porter and Elliott would further strain their secondary. New England’s offense could exploit these defensive vulnerabilities.