Cameron Heyward in Doubt for Season Debut
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive captain, Cameron Heyward, is in a delicate contractual situation that could affect his participation in the first game of the season against the New York Jets. Heyward, a four-time All-Pro, has been in prolonged conversations with the Steelers to renegotiate his contract. When asked about his availability for Sunday’s game, the player responded that he is “preparing,” but did not confirm his presence on the field. The player was evasive when asked if his participation depended on the resolution of his contract. “I would like to have a clear answer,” Heyward commented, adding that he has had “difficult conversations with his family.” Heyward’s optimism about the contract resolution before Sunday is limited. “I try to live in the moment,” he said. “I don’t have all the answers, so I’m waiting and seeing what happens.”Despite the player’s uncertainty, both his coaches and teammates have expressed their confidence that he will play at MetLife Stadium. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin stated that he expects Heyward to play, as he has been practicing. Heyward acknowledged that the Steelers generally don’t negotiate contracts during the season, making Sunday a deadline to reach an agreement. The 36-year-old player hasn’t thought about his availability for the rest of the season if an agreement isn’t reached. Heyward participated in practice from August 19th and was a full participant in all of the week’s practices, except Thursday, which is his day off. He was not included in the final injury report. Heyward’s request to renegotiate his contract, aiming to increase his compensation for 2025, arose in February, following a season in which he was recognized as an All-Pro. In September 2024, Heyward signed a two-year, $29 million extension with the Steelers, which keeps him under contract through the 2026 season. According to OverTheCap.com, the average annual value of his contract, at $14.5 million, ranks him 23rd among interior defensive linemen. Heyward mentioned that he communicated to the Steelers his intention to review the contract after the 2024 season if he obtained the All-Pro distinction. He added that he was not offered incentives to increase the value of his contract if he achieved that recognition. As part of the 2024 agreement, Heyward received a guaranteed roster bonus of $13.45 million for 2025, which raised his total compensation for the year to $14.75 million. Heyward is scheduled to receive a roster bonus of $12.95 million on the fifth day of the league year in 2026 if he remains on the roster, but his contract has no guaranteed money beyond this season. Heyward was chosen as team captain for the eleventh consecutive season and assured that his situation has not distracted his teammates in preparation for the game against the Jets. Heyward defended himself against negative reactions from fans about his contract negotiations and his uncertain status for the game. “I have to make a decision for my family. This is a business,” he said. “I maximize my opportunities and move forward.”I would like to have a clear answer, but I am waiting and seeing what happens.
Cameron Heyward
