The Pittsburgh Steelers had a tough time trying to get a new deal done with superstar defensive lineman Cam Heyward ahead of the 2024 season. With most of the attention focused on TJ Watt and his massive contract extension, many fans didn’t notice that Heyward has yet to fully participate in practice this summer. He remains on the sidelines as he waits for a restructured contract that still hasn’t been finalized.
Matt Freed / Post-Gazette
Steelers' TJ Watt and Cam Heyward run while getting warmed up for practice.
This situation was brought to light by NFL insider Adam Schefter, who reported new details on Thursday about what’s going on behind the scenes. According to Schefter, with the defensive line market shifting, Heyward is now seeking a raise that better reflects his value and experience.
The Steelers and Heyward have reportedly had quiet discussions about a new deal, but Schefter’s report marks the first time the issue has become public. As one of the leaders in the locker room and a key part of Pittsburgh’s defense, Heyward’s contract status will be a storyline to watch as the 2025 season approaches.
With little fanfare, Steelers four-time All-Pro defensive tackle Cameron Heyward hasn’t fully participated in practice yet this summer as he awaits a restructured contract that has not gotten done, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 7, 2025
Heyward is scheduled to make $14.75 million this season, with $13.45… pic.twitter.com/Wh10LaWbXl
According to Schefter, it appears Heyward has quietly been seeking a new contract that better reflects the current market for premier defensive linemen. After an elite All-Pro season in 2024, Heyward still clearly sees himself as one of the league’s top players at his position. Many fans had started to write him off following a difficult and injury-plagued 2023 season.
Steelers.com
Steelers leader Cam Heyward yells at his defense before a home game in Pittsburgh, PA in the 2024 NFL season.
During that 2023 campaign, Heyward suffered an injury in Week 1 and later revealed he was essentially playing on one leg for the rest of the year. After the season ended, he underwent groin surgery and fully recovered in time to bounce back with a dominant performance in 2024. He used the doubt and criticism as fuel, ultimately proving he could still play at an elite level.
Now, with his strong 2024 season behind him, Heyward believes he has earned another payday. He is looking to be rewarded with a deal that reflects both his recent production and his standing as one of the most respected veterans in the NFL. Schefter cited that Heyward is scheduled to make $14.75 million this season, with $13.45 million of that already having been earned as a roster bonus in March.
Steelers Now Have Problem That Needs Solved Again With Cam Heyward
Many Steelers fans didn’t seriously think Pittsburgh was going to allow Heyward to finish his career anywhere outside of the city. That belief held true as the Steelers did right by Heyward after the 2023 season and gave him new money ahead of the 2024 season. Heyward actually skipped Organized Team Activities for a short period leading up to the 2024 season because he was doing what he thought was best for himself. That was the first time Heyward had missed OTAs, but he quickly rejoined the team.
Eric Hartline / Imagn Images
Steelers superstar defensive leaders Cam Heyward and TJ Watt talk to one another before heading on the field for an away game in the 2024 NFL season.
Now he has been at camp and around the team, but it appears he is holding in as he waits for his demands to be met. It is a difficult situation for the Steelers, but one they have likely been working on for some time. Steelers fans will be waiting to see what ends up happening with Heyward’s request for a new reward.
The resolution will impact not only Heyward’s future but also the Steelers’ leadership and defensive stability moving forward. Many fans will likely assume Pittsburgh will keep Heyward happy. The now 36 year old will attempt to have another turn back the clock type of season in 2025.
#SteelerNation
