Alex Highsmith's high ankle sprain could sideline him for up to six weeks, testing Pittsburgh's edge depth as the Steelers navigate a rough start. With Joey Porter Jr. and Derrick Harmon inactive, Pittsburgh leans on rookie Jack Sawyer to soak up snaps and potentially add a veteran free-agent option to stabilize the defense after allowing 30+ points in back-to-back games.

The injury reshapes the Steelers' blueprint going forward, pressuring the coaching staff to adapt schemes and play-calling while the defensive backbone restarts around a thinner rotation. Fantasy managers should monitor Sawyer’s workload and any late-upgrade moves as Pittsburgh faces tougher offenses ahead.