Steelers camp report: OLB Alex Highsmith leaves practice because of groin injury

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith left Sunday’s training camp practice after an apparent groin injury of unknown severity.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Highsmith injured his groin during one-on-one drills early in the session, which was conducted in full pads on “family day” at Saint Vincent. Tomlin indicated Highsmith was to be evaluated to determine the significance of the injury.

The injury occurred in a pass-rush drill in the individual portion of practice. Rookie Jack Sawyer took reps with the first-team defense during some portions of 11-on-11 periods.

“He stopped and said he maybe felt his groin,” Tomlin said. “We’ll evaluate it, and I’ll be more definitive the next time we talk, not just about the injury but the severity of it.”

The Steelers will return to practice Tuesday at Chuck Noll Field after having an NFL-mandated day off Monday.

Among the players who sat out Sunday’s practice altogether were tight end Pat Freiermuth, cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice and Donte Kent, wide receiver Calvin Austin III, defensive tackle Esezi Otomewo and offensive tackle Calvin Anderson.

Freiermuth’s absence was believed to be for “veteran’s day off” rest. Returning to practice Sunday after missing time this week was fullback DJ Thomas-Jones. Several others who had the day off Saturday — including starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers and star receiver DK Metcalf — returned to action Sunday.

Tomlin was encouraged that left guard Isaac Seumalo took part in team portions of practice for the first time since he was activated from the non-football injury list. Left tackle Broderick Jones also was a full participant.

“As we lean into next week, we’re going to need every one of those guys,” Tomlin said.

The Steelers open preseason play Saturday at Jacksonville.