**Steelers to Face Ravens Without Key Linebacker Alex Highsmith**

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers will face a significant challenge in their upcoming AFC North clash against the Baltimore Ravens as they will be without their key outside linebacker, Alex Highsmith.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin announced on Tuesday that Highsmith is considered "week-to-week" after twisting his left ankle during the Steelers' narrow 28-27 victory over Washington. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter while Highsmith was pursuing Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.

This unfortunate setback marks the second time this season that Highsmith will be sidelined. Earlier in the year, a groin injury forced him to miss three games. To fill the void left by Highsmith, either Nick Herbig or Preston Smith will step into the starting lineup. Smith was recently acquired from the Green Bay Packers, while Herbig has been recovering from a month-long hiatus due to a hamstring injury. Tomlin expressed confidence that Herbig will be ready for Sunday's pivotal matchup when Pittsburgh (7-2) hosts Baltimore (7-3).

In addition to Highsmith's injury, wide receiver Calvin Austin III, who left the game late in the fourth quarter with an undisclosed issue, is anticipated to play against Baltimore. However, cornerback Donte Jackson’s availability remains uncertain after he injured his hamstring against Washington. Tomlin noted that while Jackson felt good on Tuesday, his condition will become clearer once practice resumes on Wednesday.

The game against Baltimore kicks off a challenging stretch for the Steelers, which includes six games against their AFC North counterparts. Despite the tough schedule, Tomlin remains unfazed. "I'll play them whenever they schedule us," he said. "We got no control over schedule. Our goal is to beat everybody."