Steelers' Cam Heyward wants new deal, 'holding in' at training camp
PITTSBURGH — One year after he signed a three-year contract, Steelers defensive end and team captain Cam Heyward wants a new deal and appears to be "holding in" to get one, sources told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Heyward has been in uniform at training camp at Saint Vincent College, but he has been a limited participant, sometimes working off to the side by himself. He has not been listed as having an injury.
Heyward has not publicly announced he wants a new contract, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted on X the seven-time Pro Bowler’s desire to get a better deal, citing sources.
Heyward signed a three-year, $51.4 million contract before the 2024 season that included a $21.1 million signing bonus. He proceeded to have one of the best seasons of his 14-year career, being named first-team All-Pro for the fourth time.
In addition, Heyward has already been paid a $13.45 million roster bonus for 2025, when he will count $19.65 million against the salary cap. But his average salary of $14.5 million ranks 22nd among the NFL’s interior defensive linemen, according to overthecap.com.
Despite his stature as the leader of the defense, Heyward’s contract is dwarfed by the recent deal given to outside linebacker T.J. Watt, who signed a four-year, $144.05 million contract that includes $108 million guaranteed.
Heyward has also watched the Steelers bring in new players such as receiver DK Metcalf (five years, $150 million) and cornerback Jalen Ramsey ($18.735 million salary in 2025) with massive contacts.
