Numerous people in the NFL frequently point to the Steelers’ solid track record of elite players concluding their careers in Pittsburgh as a benefit. A player is hoping to add his name to the list of NFL players who have spent more than ten years in Pittsburgh, including Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, Ike Taylor, and Ben Roethlisberger.
For more than ten years, Cameron Heyward has been one of the Steelers’ most important players. His accomplishments both on and off the field have redefined what it means to be a Steeler. He is searching for a new deal that will enable him to play one more game for the Steelers as his career is coming to an end. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, including three first-team All-Pro selections, six Pro Bowl selections, and most recently, the Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
His 2023 season was ruined by injuries, and he didn’t perform to his usual level of effectiveness when he did return. Although he has stated that he wants to play for three more seasons, will he be able to play at a good level when he approaches 40 rather than 30? If that’s the case, should the Steelers be prepared to shell out a lot of money for a player who might decline much more in 2024 and beyond? Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of a possible Heyward extension.
Extending Cam Heyward’s deal includes many possible benefits even if there are many potential concerns. Another illustration of the devotion that characterizes the Steelers method would be to keep one of the top players of this period of Steelers football for the duration of his career. Players throughout the league will also take note of the fact that Heyward is receiving one last salary as compensation for the outstanding second half of his career.
Heyward’s performance on the field in 2023 may have decreased slightly from prior seasons, but it’s most likely due to the groin injury he sustained in week one. He still has the potential to be a strong interior defender in good condition. His physicality will keep him useful as a run defender even if his ability to rush the passer never reaches its peak again. It’s important to remember his influence on Keanu Benton and the other members of the defensive line as a leader and mentor.
His influence on the community is last but most definitely not least. Heyward’s involvement with Pittsburgh’s youngsters through various initiatives has been a major factor in the Steelers’ selection of him as their nomination for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award six times in his career. Although his charitable contributions might not be taken into account when the Steelers try to decide his future, Pittsburgh will undoubtedly benefit from them.
There aren’t many complicated drawbacks to a Cam Heyward extension. Usually, it’s not a wise financial decision to pay a significant amount of money for an inside defender who is 35 years old and coming off a bad season. The Steelers are expecting Heyward to have a healthy and productive season in 2024, but are they certain he can get back to his previous level of play and maintain it for a few more years?
Why this extension isn’t as straightforward as it seems is the question. Heyward’s request for a two-year or longer contract at an annual pay comparable to that of the best interior defenders would be difficult to accept. As of right now, he is in the last year of a contract that pays him somewhat more than $16 million annually. Anything above that would put the Steelers’ finances at serious jeopardy, but even that amount might be a little excessive.
Even though Heyward hasn’t lost since reaching thirty, Father Time is unbeaten. Because of his size, power, and length, he should be able to continue playing solid run defense, but his best days as an interior rusher may be behind him. After agreeing to a multi-year agreement, he could have an albatross contract if he significantly regresses in 2024. Not ideal for a squad where a number of players are eager to sign deals that may start the next season.
