Despite Cameron Heyward’s limited participation during training camp and the preseason, Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin anticipates that the four-time All-Pro defensive lineman will play in the season opener against the New York Jets. Tomlin, in his weekly press conference, expressed his confidence in Heyward’s presence on the field. “I certainly expect Cam to play,” Tomlin stated. “My job is to manage him and I have done that. There are no reservations about his participation or preparation. I am sure he is eager to play.” However, Tomlin also reported that the team will not have first-round defensive lineman Derrick Harmon in Week 1. Harmon suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain in the last preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. The coach also added that linebacker Nick Herbig (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday’s game. Although Tomlin was optimistic about Heyward’s participation against the Jets, the player, who is about to begin his fifteenth season with the team, was less conclusive. On his podcast “Not Just Football”, Heyward responded “We’ll see” when asked about his participation in Week 1. Additionally, Heyward offered no update on his contract. “Nothing to talk about,” commented the 36-year-old player. Heyward initiated a brief “hold-in” at the end of the Steelers’ training camp due to frustration over contract negotiations. Since then, he has participated in individual and team workouts. The player signed a two-year, $29 million extension with the Steelers in September 2024, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season.
On the other hand, the Steelers released veteran wide receiver Robert Woods from their practice squad. Woods requested and was granted his release after deciding he didn’t want to continue on the practice squad. However, he told the Steelers he would be willing to return to the 53-man roster if a spot opened up.I am looking 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’ve had, to justify playing with the number I’m playing with.
Cameron Heyward
