Three must-watch players for the Steelers in Week 4

The Steelers (2-1) head to Houston to face the Texans (1-2) in Week 4. Here are three must-watch players who could make a big impact for Pittsburgh.

Pat Freiermuth, tight end

Freiermuth, the Steelers' 2021 second-round pick, hasn't been used as much as many anticipated coming into his third season. The 24-year-old has just five catches for 46 yards through the first three weeks of the season. However, after scoring his second touchdown of the season in Week 3, Freiermuth's usage seems to be increasing, which is perfect timing against the Texans.

Houston has struggled against tight ends, allowing 17 receptions for 162 yards and a touchdown to start the year, according to CBS Sports. Freiermuth must take advantage of the Texans' young defense and exploit them over the middle of the field.

Alex Highsmith, linebacker

Everyone is talking about LB T.J. Watt, as they should. But Highsmith deserves some recognition of his own and he may just earn it in Week 4. According to insider Aaron Wilson, left tackle Josh Jones is expected to miss the game against Pittsburgh due to a hand injury and Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil remains sidelined with a lingering knee injury as well.

That means Highsmith will be matched up against Houston's third-string left tackle on Sunday. The fourth-year linebacker already has one sack, forced fumble, interception and touchdown on the season. He may just double those numbers by the end of the weekend.

Keeanu Benton, defensive tackle

Benton, a second-round pick in 2023, has been helping to fill in for DT Cameron Heyward, who is expected to miss up to eight weeks with a groin injury. The 22-year-old has been doing so quite nicely, earning his first career sack in Week 3 and he has a good opportunity to get his second this week.

The Texans' troubles on the offensive line don't stop at left tackle as it may just be the most injured group in the entire NFL. With injuries all over the O-line, guard Kendrick Green, who the Steelers traded to Houston this offseason, is expected to start in Week 4. Green struggled mightily in Pittsburgh, even being named a bust as a former third-round pick. Benton should only add to the pressure on rookie QB C.J. Stroud.