Pittsburgh Steelers players were noticeably absent from their offseason training regimen throughout the first two weeks. That all changed on Tuesday when defensive lineman Cam Heyward, a three-time first-team All-Pro, visited the Steelers’ facility again amid concerns about his future with the organization.
Gerry Dulac reports that Heyward reported to voluntary OTAs on Tuesday, indicating that the 35-year-old won’t wait to sign a new deal when the Steelers begin mandatory minicamp on June 11.
Heyward signed a four-year agreement with the Steelers in 2020, and he is currently in the final year of that deal. Heyward usually attends all offseason workouts, but he missed two weeks of them in order to pursue a new contract with Pittsburgh.
The 13-year veteran does not intend to retire after the 2024 season, but he is adamant that he wants to play one more season with the Steelers. Given Heyward’s age and drop in play from the previous season, that puts both teams in a difficult predicament.
Heyward had surgery to treat a groin ailment that kept him out of six games in 2023. Although he exceeded his anticipated recovery time to participate in the final ten games for the Steelers, he did not have the same influence as he did in years before.
Heyward racked up 33 tackles, two sacks, and six tackles for loss in 11 games. His lowest number of sacks since his second NFL season (2012) was that one.
Heyward’s six-year run of consecutive Pro Bowl selections was ended by an injury-plagued season, and there appears to be considerable skepticism about his ability to play at that level again this year and in the future.
In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Heyward would not rule out “holding in” for the summer, even if a holdout seemed unlikely. On his first day back with the Steelers, he did take part in drills but also said he hadn’t given it much consideration as to why he hadn’t shown up for workouts.
Heyward wouldn’t be the first player to report to camp in order to stay out of trouble but still decline to play. According to his remarks on Tuesday, he still feels that he is an important member of the Steelers and should be treated as such.
“I want my position to be respected. Heyward stated, “I know I had a difficult season, but I don’t think it’s a step below where I can play,” according to Steelers Depot. “Even at my best, I rank among the top five players in my position. I play both passing and running. I offer leadership.
Heyward captained the Steelers for nine seasons in a row, and there’s no reason to think he won’t be in 2024. Aside from contract talks, Heyward simply wants to be playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
It wouldn’t be surprising if the Steelers maintained their offer to Heyward and made 2024 the veteran’s year of validation. It makes sense that, despite the possibility of his decline continuing, he wants a new contract signed before the season begins. Pittsburgh feels the same way, as they are unlikely to shell out top price for a guy who may be far past his peak.
Cam Heyward is highly valued by the Steelers, and following his career, he is almost certain to be honored into their Hall of Honor. But 2024 might be his swan song season, and his time in Pittsburgh might end sooner than he had planned.
