Cameron Heyward’s Future With The Steelers Still Up In The Air
Kosport Magazine – As the 2021 NFL season approaches, the future of Cameron Heyward with the Pittsburgh Steelers remains uncertain. Heyward, who has been a part of the black and gold for his entire career, could potentially be playing in different colors next season.
The defensive tackle is entering the final year of his current contract, a four-year, $65 million deal signed in 2020. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2025 and has been seeking an extension. However, negotiations have not yet led to a new deal, leaving his future with the franchise unknown.
According to Spotrac, Heyward is scheduled to make $16 million this year. But with the possibility of leaving the Steelers, Heyward has already considered other potential landing spots. “I have talked to my wife, and we know the reality…she said it could be fun to play somewhere else,” Heyward shared with The Athletic.
The 31-year-old even mentioned the Cleveland Browns as a possibility, as he has ties to the city through family and his wife. “We will see. I am not trying to think about all that right now,” Heyward said. Last week, Heyward expressed a desire to be a “one-helmet guy” and stay with the Steelers for his entire career, but that doesn’t mean he is ruling out a move.
Despite playing only 11 games last season due to injuries, Heyward’s determination to continue playing is unwavering. “To me, I have more bullets to fire and I’m excited to do that,” he stated.
Heyward, a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, dealt with a groin injury last season that impacted his performance. He underwent surgery and missed six games before returning to the field, where he clearly struggled to play at his usual level.
But retirement is not even a thought for Heyward at this point. “I don’t even know which way to even lean…But I can assure you this: I will be playing in 2025, I will tell you that,” he shared with confidence.
Heyward’s tenure with the Steelers began when he was drafted in the first round in 2011. Since then, he has established himself as a key player on the team and even won the Walter Payton Man of the Year award last season.
Kosport Magazine’s Take: Heyward Holds The Key To His Future
It’s not often that a player spends their entire career with one team. But Cameron Heyward has already expressed a desire to do so by becoming a “one-helmet guy.” However, with his current contract expiring after this season and no agreement on an extension, Heyward could be playing for a different team in 2022.
The injuries and struggles Heyward faced last season may have raised some concerns, but his determination to continue playing and his track record of success make him a valuable asset to any team. Whether it be in Pittsburgh or elsewhere, Heyward’s future is in his own hands. And as he continues to excel on and off the field, one thing is for sure – he will be playing in 2025.
