Macafee: Outside linebackers rejuvenated by Highsmith's return

Seeing T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig all healthy at the same time this season has been a rarity due to the different injuries both Highsmith and Herbig have suffered. Add Preston Smith into the mix and it hasn't happened at all. That is, until Sunday's 27-14 win over the Browns. So, they took advantage and made their presence known from the start.

There was this: 

And then this two plays later: 

Both of those plays happened on two of the first three defensive plays and set the tone. While Herbig and Smith didn't register any statistics, they've shown what they are capable of over the last few weeks. On this day, Watt and Highsmith combined for seven tackles, one sack, three TFLs and four quarterback hits. They also contributed to limiting Nick Chubb and Jerome Ford to 76 yards on 21 carries. 

When healthy, the depth and talent of the Steelers' outside linebacker group is one of the best in the league. I asked Cam Heyward how dangerous the defense is when that group is healthy and, well, I don't think he'd want to be an opposing offensive lineman. 

"You have to prepare for T.J., Alex, Nick Herbig, and Preston as well," Heyward said. "Their resumes speak for themselves. I know those tackles ... their heads are spinning trying to keep up with all those guys."

Highsmith returned this week from a left ankle injury he suffered against the Commanders and those four are still experimenting with moving around the defensive front and giving offensive lines different looks. Now, imagine what that group can do once they are operating at full capacity. That will be a sight to behold.