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The Pittsburgh Steelers' fan base has been upset at superstar Cam Heyward for over a month now. It all started when it was revealed that Heyward had been negotiating with the Steelers' front office since February about getting more money in 2025. Heyward just signed an extension with the Steelers before the 2024 season, and that’s why the fan base has been so hard on the 36-year-old defensive lineman. The frustration has only grown as talks have dragged on without resolution, putting both sides under the microscope.

Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers superstar pass rusher TJ Watt talks with longtime defensive leader Cam Heyward during training camp.
Heyward’s situation has created tension between him and parts of the fan base that once stood firmly behind him. Many fans feel he should honor the contract he just signed and that the team has already shown its commitment. Others argue that his long career and contributions to the organization give him the right to push for what he believes he deserves, even if the timing feels unusual.
Cam Heyward: “I have to make a decision for my family. This is a business. I cannot play this game forever…
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) September 5, 2025
It’s not being greedy. It’s just how this game is. It’s Not For Long. NFL.” pic.twitter.com/17vidImNXf
Many fans are getting even more upset as it now appears to be a distraction, as Week 1 against the New York Jets has been overshadowed by the questions around Heyward's status. Heyward cleared the air when he spoke to the media on Friday. He has continued to tease the fact he may skip Week 1 if his needs are not met by the organization. According to Heyward, it’s not about being greedy, but about fighting for what he believes is fair.
"I have to make a decision for my family," Heyward told insider Mike DeFabo. "This is a business. I cannot play this game forever. Just like I am maximized on the field, I wanna be maximized outside of it."
Many within the Steelers' fan base have posted about the situation. A good chunk of them are upset with Heyward and believe he is being greedy by asking for more money at this stage of his career.

Matt Freed / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Cam Heyward yells after making a huge play during a game in the Steel City of Pittsburgh.
Other fans are standing by Heyward’s request and believe it is a fair ask. Heyward continued to add context to the situation, explaining why he does not view it as being greedy.
"I wanna be taken care of," Heyward said. "It’s not being greedy, it is just what this game is. It’s not for long, the NFL, so I would tell every guy to maximize your opportunities."
Steelers' Cam Heyward Seriously Could Sit Out Week 1 Against The Jets
If Heyward were to sit out Week 1, it would leave the Steelers without one of their most experienced and reliable leaders. His role on the field and in the locker room is difficult to replace, and his absence could be felt immediately. For now, the standoff continues, and all attention remains on whether the front office and Heyward can find common ground before the season begins.

Jeff Dean / AP Photo
Steelers leader Cam Heyward gets ready during an away game.
The fan base will continue to debate this situation until a final decision is made. Some believe Heyward is simply using his platform to get the attention of the front office, while others think his comments are a sign that a real standoff could be coming.
Either way, the outcome will play a major role in how the Steelers open their 2025 season. If Heyward is on the field, the defense keeps its anchor. If he sits, it sends a powerful message that this contract dispute is far from over. Many assume he will be on the field for Week 1 on Sunday against the Jets.
How do you feel about how Cam Heyward has handled this request for more money? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.
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