Steelers’ Quiet Confidence Fuels Their 4–1 Start Despite Shifting Roles and Injuries

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Steelers may not be playing flashy football, but their quiet confidence and adaptability have paved the way to a 4–1 start — even as several key veterans find themselves in unfamiliar roles.

In 2023, Pittsburgh made a strong financial commitment to edge rusher Alex Highsmith, rewarding him for his breakout performances and elite pass-rushing ability. The organization doubled down a year later, extending tight end Pat Freiermuth to secure a cornerstone on offense.

Yet as the 2025 season unfolds, both Highsmith and Freiermuth have had to adjust — sharing snaps with emerging young talent while battling injuries or situational shifts within the team’s evolving depth chart.

Next Man Up Mentality

Highsmith, who has been nursing an ankle injury, has watched rookie Nick Herbig step into his role and flash star potential. Herbig’s relentless motor and explosive first step have evoked comparisons to T.J. Watt, who remains the emotional heartbeat of Pittsburgh’s defense.

“Nick’s been phenomenal,” Watt said after Sunday’s 23–9 win over the Cleveland Browns. “He prepares like a vet, and that’s what you want in this locker room — guys who stay ready.”

For Freiermuth, who led the Steelers in receptions during the 2024 season, the story is different. The tight end now finds himself part of a crowded rotation that includes Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington, the latter standing an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing in at over 265 pounds. Washington’s physical dominance has made him a matchup nightmare in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

Adjusting Roles, Same Mindset

Standing at his locker after Sunday’s win, Freiermuth shrugged when asked about his reduced role.

“I just want to win,” he said. “That’s the culture here — no egos. You stay ready, do your job, and help the guy next to you.”

That selflessness has become a defining trait of this year’s Steelers. Despite rotating personnel and dealing with injuries, head coach Mike Tomlin has instilled a sense of steadiness and belief in his locker room.

“We’re not perfect,” Tomlin admitted. “But this group trusts each other. That’s how you win in this league — with trust and consistency.”

A Balanced, Battle-Tested Team

Offensively, the Steelers have leaned on a balanced attack. The run game, powered by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, has provided rhythm and physicality, while quarterback Kenny Pickett continues to grow in his command of the offense.

Defensively, Pittsburgh remains one of the league’s most disciplined units, ranking among the top in takeaways and red-zone stops. The rotation of Watt, Highsmith, and Herbig gives the Steelers fresh legs and constant pressure — a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

Their 23–9 win over Cleveland was a prime example of the formula: controlled tempo, strong defense, and efficient execution.

Winning Without the Spotlight

There’s a noticeable lack of flash surrounding this Steelers team — and that’s exactly how they like it.

While other AFC contenders make headlines for explosive plays or star-studded rosters, Pittsburgh’s strength lies in its depth, discipline, and unshakable belief that collective effort beats individual accolades.

“This isn’t about one guy,” Watt said. “It’s about 11 guys doing their job every snap. That’s Steelers football.”

Looking Ahead

With a 4–1 record, the Steelers are sitting comfortably near the top of the AFC North. Yet Tomlin insists the team’s best football is still ahead.

“We’re finding our identity,” he said. “The great thing about this group is, no one’s satisfied.”

As Highsmith works his way back to full strength and Freiermuth continues to adjust to his changing role, both veterans embody the team’s motto: humility, hard work, and resilience.

For a franchise that prides itself on toughness and tradition, this version of the Steelers might not dominate the highlight reels — but they’re quietly building something even more valuable: a winning culture built on trust and adaptability.