Cameron Heyward Participates in Practice, But Contract Renegotiation Remains Uncertain
Pittsburgh Steelers’ star defensive lineman Cameron Heyward reported to training camp and participated in the team’s individual drills on Tuesday. However, sources close to the situation reveal that there has been no significant progress on his contract renegotiation request. Heyward, who began a holdout period at training camp on August 7, was present at the last four practices at St. Vincent College, but wore street clothes and observed from the sideline during team periods. Despite his return to practice, his desire to renegotiate his contract persists.The 36-year-old player was not available to speak to reporters after practice. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Heyward also participated in team periods on Tuesday. Heyward told reporters on August 11 that he is seeking to increase his compensation for the 2025 season, following a standout year in 2024.He is a leader.
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Heyward signed a two-year, $29 million contract extension with the Steelers in September 2024, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season. According to OverTheCap.com, the average annual value of his $14.5 million contract ranks him 23rd among interior defensive linemen. Heyward first requested a compensation increase in February, after being named All-Pro following a season where he recorded eight sacks, 20 quarterback hits, and 71 combined tackles. He also led all defensive linemen with 11 passes defended. The lack of progress in negotiations contributed to his decision to hold out earlier this month. Although Heyward did not make his specific contract requests public, he mentioned that restructuring next year’s roster bonus in compensation for this year is something “similar” to what he is looking for.I seek to be valued. I know what I bring to this team and what I am capable of on and off the field, so it’s difficult for me, after the year I had, to justify playing with the number I’m playing with.
Cameron Heyward
It’s not unprecedented. There have been cases where it has happened before, and that makes me feel a little cautious because it’s not unprecedented. I think there’s an easier way to do this to continue to respect the Steelers and what they do, having levels outside of a contract, but we’ll see.
Cameron Heyward
