The Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty heading into Sunday’s season opener as defensive sort out Cameron Heyward continues contract negotiations that would affect his availability in opposition to the New York Jets.
Head coach Mike Tomlin expressed confidence earlier this week, stating he’s “actually anticipating” Heyward to go well with up for the sport.
Nevertheless, when Heyward spoke to reporters Friday for the primary time in weeks, his feedback painted a distinct image concerning his standing for the opener.
“I’ve to decide for my household. This can be a enterprise. I can’t play this sport endlessly. Identical to I’m maximized on the sector, I wish to be maximized exterior of it. I wish to be taken care of that means. It’s not being grasping. It’s simply the best way this sport is. It’s ‘Not For Lengthy.’ NFL. I might inform each man, maximize your alternatives,” Heyward mentioned, per Brooke Pryor.
Cam Heyward on the general public response to his request for a reworked contract: “this can be a enterprise. I can’t play this sport endlessly, and similar to I’m maximized on the sector, I wish to be maximized exterior of it. …
“It’s not being grasping. It’s simply the best way this sport is.” pic.twitter.com/1f9w1rsgLW
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 5, 2025
The present scenario stems from ongoing contract discussions between Heyward and the Steelers group.
Final yr, Pittsburgh initially requested a pay discount from their veteran defender. The 2 sides finally reached a three-year, $45 million extension that runs by means of 2026.
This season, Heyward acquired a $13.45 million roster bonus and carries a $1.3 million base wage.
His complete cap hit reaches $19.65 million for the 2024 marketing campaign.
The stress has developed as a result of Heyward had minimal leverage throughout final yr’s negotiations following an injury-riddled 2023 season.
He bounced again with an All-Professional efficiency that has him searching for compensation matching his elite manufacturing stage.
A significant sticking level includes timing. Heyward nonetheless has two years remaining on his present deal, whereas Pittsburgh usually avoids renegotiating contracts with multiple yr left.
At present averaging $14.5 million yearly, Heyward ranks twenty second amongst inside defensive linemen in keeping with Over The Cap.
His argument facilities on two key elements: his top-level efficiency final season and the dearth of assured cash that leaves him weak to launch.
The submit Cam Heyward Speaks Out About His Contract Dispute appeared first on The Chilly Wire.
