The Pittsburgh Steelers are a team built on tradition and a strong family bond. This has always been evident throughout the team's history, as people always cite the Steelers as being a different type of environment, and one they love to play for due to the type of environment the organization has created. This tradition is not only carried on through the management of the team, but by the players themselves. They carry and pass on traditions from past teams to new ones and keep the mentality and the expectations for the team constant. A prime example of a player that does such a thing is current defensive captain, Cameron Heyward.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin gives praise to Cam Heyward
Head Coach Mike Tomlin recently went on the Bleav in Steelers podcast with Mark Bergin and former Steelers' cornerback, Ike Taylor. They talked about a multitude of different topics and players both past and current. Taylor asked Tomlin about Heyward and what makes him so unique. Tomlin had this to say about his All-Pro defensive lineman:
"Cam is the Bridge, you know? I always talk to Cam about when you guys are in town, because he really is the bridge you know? He's the guy that sits around in quiet moments between periods, special teams. He's giving these guys stories of you guys, and what it means to be a Pittsburgh Steeler, and that is really a cool thing. He wears it in such a natural way, and I want you to know like I tell everybody else, he's doing a heck of a job of sharing the lessons that you guys taught him, and making sure the that the legacy lives on."
The full interview can be seen here.
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward celebrates with head coach, Mike Tomlin after their 39-38 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, December 10, 2017 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. | Christopher Horner / Tribune-Review
One does not get higher praise than that. The biggest compliment a Steeler can get is the approval of the ones that came before them, as former Steeler and first ballot Hall of Fame safety Troy Polamalu said himself in his induction speech. Heyward is a proud Steeler, and teaching the new era what it means to wear the black and gold is what he's all about.
Heyward's play on the field has spoke volumes about upholding that standard. Heyward has been named to five consecutive Pro Bowls and four All-Pro selections (three First Team and one Second Team). He is currently sixth on the all-time Steeler sack list with 68 career sacks, which should increase and potentially move him up the list as early as this season.
Heyward continues to carry on the tradition of the “Steeler Way” and is now the most veteran player on the roster. He will continue to leave an impact on his teammates, and pass tradition down to other guys, now which include his younger brother Connor Heyward, and continue to breed the type of players that are coveted and cherished in the city of Pittsburgh.
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