Drafting small-school players with good production in the third round is something that is starting to become a trend for the Steelers. In 2016, Pittsburgh struck gold with South Carolina State defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, and last year they took Toledo wide receiver Diontae Johnson in round three. This year, that trend continues with Charlotte edge defender, Alex Highsmith.
Highsmith, a former walk-on at Charlotte, shocked the nation as he climbed the latter and broke records to ultimately become a mid-round draft choice into the NFL. His production was outstanding as a senior when he recorded 75 tackles, 21.