Cameron Heyward, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ veteran defensive lineman, is a team captain for a reason. This will be his 11th straight season at the helm. At 36, Heyward is still one of the best players on the team. He’s an incredible presence on and off the field. The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to face the New York Jets this weekend. As much as his contract situation generates a buzz, it hasn’t diverted his new teammates from getting in the gym to help him raise his game.
Heyward’s career as a defensive captain and four-time All-Pro has already made him one of the strongest leaders found in any locker room. He went through a short hold-in during training camp this summer due to frustrations over contract negotiations. He came back to practice on August 19 and was full go for the week, saving only his customary Thursday off for last. Per their final injury report, the Steelers have indicated that Heyward has no game designation. That means he is officially good to go in Sunday’s matchup against the Jets.
Contract negotiations have lingered for months. In September 2024, Heyward signed a two-year extension at $29 million, though it’s mostly non-guaranteed money after this season. His average annual value of $14.5 million places him 23rd among all interior defensive linemen. This year, his total compensation will be $14.75 million. This total accounts for a guaranteed race to roster bonus of $13.45 million for 2025.
Heyward intends to reengage in contract discussions following the 2024 season. He only plans to do so if and after he receives an All-Pro selection. This has led him to spend considerable time thinking about his own long-term goals with the club.
“I wish I had a straight answer for you right now,” – Cameron Heyward
Heyward has promised his teammates that he doesn’t intend for contract negotiations to become a distraction. He said that he has been above-board with them. He has consistently participated in ongoing discussions—both structured and free-wheeling—around how he’s feeling about all of this.
“I’ve addressed it openly with my teammates,” – Cameron Heyward
Considering all that, the Steelers’ approach to the game this week has stayed equally focused and uncompromised by Heyward’s contract worries. His leadership and veteran know-how are an ongoing resource for all the younger players on the squad.
“I never wanted it to be a distraction or them to think otherwise,” – Cameron Heyward
As summer slips into fall, Heyward knows the war on the field isn’t over yet. No one understands the business of pro sports better than him. Yet he understands very well that some decisions are made with no regard for how players may feel.
“They could cut me now, and they could have cut me right after the season and it wouldn’t affect them. So there’s give and take on that, and this is a business if I can’t talk openly about it,” – Cameron Heyward
Despite uncertainty about his future, Heyward is focused on contributing to the Steelers’ success this season. He’s optimistic to proceed one day at a time, with his teammates always in the loop.
“There’s loud voices, and everybody has an opinion, but I can’t control that,” – Cameron Heyward
Even more than the skills with which he plays, Heyward’s presence on the field – and the way he makes everyone around him better – is priceless. As he prepares to start against the Jets. Second, he underlines that serving the team’s goals is his number one priority.
“Still got some time, but we’ll see,” – Cameron Heyward
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