The Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty heading into Sunday’s season opener as defensive tackle Cameron Heyward continues contract negotiations that could impact his availability against the New York Jets.
Head coach Mike Tomlin expressed confidence earlier this week, stating he is “certainly expecting” Heyward to suit up for the game.
However, when Heyward spoke to reporters Friday for the first time in weeks, his comments painted a different picture regarding his status for the opener.
“I have to make a decision for my family. This is a business. I cannot play this game forever. Just like I’m maximized on the field, I want to be maximized outside of it. I want to be taken care of that way. It’s not being greedy. It’s just the way this game is. It’s ‘Not For Long.’ NFL. I would tell every guy, maximize your opportunities,” Heyward said, per Brooke Pryor.
Cam Heyward on the public response to his request for a reworked contract: “this is a business. I cannot play this game forever, and just like I’m maximized on the field, I want to be maximized outside of it. …
“It’s not being greedy. It’s just the way this game is.” pic.twitter.com/1f9w1rsgLW
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 5, 2025
The current situation stems from ongoing contract discussions between Heyward and the Steelers organization.
Last year, Pittsburgh initially requested a pay reduction from their veteran defender. The two sides eventually reached a three-year, $45 million extension that runs through 2026.
This season, Heyward received a $13.45 million roster bonus and carries a $1.3 million base salary.
His total cap hit reaches $19.65 million for the 2024 campaign.
The tension has developed because Heyward had minimal leverage during last year’s negotiations following an injury-riddled 2023 season.
He bounced back with an All-Pro performance that has him seeking compensation matching his elite production level.
A major sticking point involves timing. Heyward still has two years remaining on his current deal, while Pittsburgh typically avoids renegotiating contracts with more than one year left.
Currently averaging $14.5 million annually, Heyward ranks 22nd among interior defensive linemen according to Over The Cap.
His argument centers on two key factors: his top-level performance last season and the lack of guaranteed money that leaves him vulnerable to release.
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