Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith is out for Week 3 with an ankle injury but should avoid a longer absence necessitating an injured reserve stint.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that Highsmith “can be classified as out” with a sprained ankle. He was injured Sunday in Pittsburgh’s 31-17 loss to the Seahawks and won’t be on the field this week at New England.

The Steelers are waiting to see rookie first-round pick Derrick Harmon on the practice field before determining his status. A defensive tackle at Oregon, Harmon can play multiple spots on the 3-4 front but missed the first two games of the season with a knee injury. His debut this week would be a timely return as the Steelers (1-1) already ruled defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk out with a high-ankle sprain.

Linebacker Pat

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