Steelers LB’s Life Transformed When He Realized This

Published: December 5, 2025

By Mallory Mattingly

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith’s faith didn’t become real until he realized he couldn’t save himself.

“I grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina. I did go to church; I attended different youth camps and things like that. Then I got to high school and just kind of wavered off a little bit. It wasn’t really real to me, you know. I would just go to church just to check off on a checklist,” Highsmith began to explain on Sports Spectrum’s most recent “I Once Was” series installment.

“I ended up attending the great University of UNC Charlotte. I ended up walking onto the football program my freshman year, and I really tried to fit in. I wanted to try out the party scene and tried doing different things like that, and ultimately that stuff just really wasn’t fulfilling,” he admitted.

While at UNC Charlotte, Highsmith met a few guys who introduced him to FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes).

“They announced at one of the FCA meetings about this conference where a bunch of different schools come and fellowship and grow in the Lord. I ended up going in 2015 for the first time,” the linebacker recalled. “That weekend, I just remember the pastor was talking about the reality of heaven and hell. I think God just opened up my eyes and my heart that night, because that was the first time I realized that I’m a sinner in need of a savior.”

“I remember that night, a worship leader was playing music, and I felt this heartbeat in my chest,” he added. “That was clearly the Holy Spirit tugging at my heart and drawing me to Himself. I said a prayer that night, and Jesus became real, and I accepted Him as my savior.”

Now, Highsmith doesn’t play for himself but to be the best teammate and player for Christ.

“I’ve always been caught up in the identity of what I do. I want to be the best NFL player that I can be, but ultimately, what I do for Christ will last. I’m so grateful for all that He’s done in my life, and all He’s going to continue to do,” he concluded.

Last month, Highsmith received the AFC Defensive Player of the Week award.

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“Football is an amazing game, but it’s a horrible god,” Highsmith told Liberty University students earlier this year. “Playing throughout the years, that is something that the Lord has revealed to me. There are so many ups and downs [in football]…and where your identity is is huge. It’s so free knowing that I can go out there and play the best that I can, give my best effort out there, knowing that the Lord loves the same no matter how well I play and knowing that it’s an opportunity to give glory to Him.”

Since putting his faith in Christ in college, Highsmith plays every game for God. What an incredible testimony to the transforming power of Jesus.

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