Charlotte alums don't often dominate NFL headlines, but Alex Highsmith made sure to change that in Week 1.
The Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker was one of the most disruptive defenders on the field in the Steelers' 20–13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, September 13, racking up two sacks and earning strong grades from analysts as one of Pittsburgh's standout performers on the day. Paired with All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt, Highsmith helped make life miserable for Atlanta's offensive line from the opening drive.
The performance was more than just a box-score moment. According to Yahoo Sports' post-game grading of Pittsburgh's Week 1 effort, Highsmith was singled out alongside Watt as a key reason the Steelers' pass rush looked so dangerous — a pairing that, if it holds, could make Pittsburgh's defense one of the more feared units in the AFC. The Steelers' win wasn't clean everywhere — the running game and offensive line drew scrutiny — but the defensive front more than held up its end of the bargain, and Highsmith was central to that story.
For Charlotte football, it's a meaningful moment. The 49ers don't have a long tradition of producing NFL impact players at the highest level, but Highsmith has steadily built a case as one of the program's best professional exports. Now entering what should be a prime stretch of his career in Pittsburgh, his Week 1 showing suggests he's positioned to be a key contributor — not just a complementary piece — in a Steelers defense with legitimate playoff ambitions.
The rest of Charlotte's NFL contingent was quieter out of the gates. Guard Nate Davis and long snapper Cameron Lyons are both on the Bears' roster, while Julius Welschof joins Highsmith on Pittsburgh's depth chart at linebacker. Wide receiver Grant DuBose is with the Dolphins, Larry Ogunjobi continues to anchor a defensive line spot with the Bills, Markees Watts is in Cleveland with the Browns, and Demetrius Knight holds a spot with the Bengals. None generated notable stat lines in the opening week, but roster presence across seven NFL franchises speaks to the quiet depth Charlotte has developed at the professional level.
Still, this week belongs to Highsmith. Two sacks, a team win, and a glowing grade — it's the kind of debut that sets a tone for the season. Charlotte fans have reason to watch Pittsburgh closely this fall.
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