During his press conference today, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin left the light on for an Alex Highsmith return Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. Highsmith suffered a sprained ankle in the Steelers Week 10 victory over the Washington Commanders and was initially designated as “week-to-week.”

When asked this week about his possible availability against the Bengals, Highsmith said he “is aiming to get back out there,” and acknowledged the significance of their upcoming AFC North battle against the Cincinnati Bengals. He also knows that staying healthy long-term takes precedence, noting he has to be confident if he plays on the ankle injury.

Steelers beat reporter Nick Farabaugh shares that Highsmith is “optimistic” he can play in Week 12:

Alex Highsmith said he ran a bit off to the side today. In his words, he ‘felt good' while doing it.

Highsmith is optimistic he can play against the Bengals, but will see how things go throughout the week before a final call can be made.

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) November 26, 2024

The return of the star edge would be a welcome sight. Highsmith has 4.5 sacks through six games for the black and gold and is instrumental in their pass rush.

Tomlin also acknowledged that the door is “ajar” for a possible return for second-year CB Cory Trice Jr. (hamstring) and veteran DT Montravius Adams (knee). Trice Jr. has returned to practice as a full participant leading up to Week 12, with his 21-day practice window currently open. The 21-day window started on November 14, which means the teams will need to activate him to the 53-man roster within 21 days or he will remain on IR rest of season.

Adams, meanwhile, has not had his 21-day practice window opened up. Though he’s not a starter, his return will be welcome for some added depth along the defensive line. Adams has 1.0 sacks, 5 tackles and a tackle for loss over seven games played this year.