It shouldn't have come to this point, but Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman, Cam Heyward will officially be at the 2023 Pro Bowl Games. After another elite season, he was wrongfully snubbed when the rosters were first released. He was listed as an alternate, which is how he will now be apart of the weekend.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
With the Kansas City Chiefs advancing to the Super Bowl on Sunday night, Chris Jones won't be able to participate. Of course, he'll be busy preparing to win his second ring. As a result, Heyward was officially announced as his replacement on Tuesday by the Steelers.
.@CamHeyward has been named to the Pro Bowl Games‼️
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 31, 2023
He'll replace Chiefs DT Chris Jones.
📝: https://t.co/n45hpTmirM pic.twitter.com/IWhUixbRVU
In 17 games, Heyward's 10.5 sacks were tied-for-17th in the 2022 regular season. That number was fifth-best amongst interior defensive linemen and third-best amongst AFC IDL. That was the second-best sack tally of his career, while he also tied his most QB hits in a season with 22.
Heyward continued to be a menace across the board, racking up four pass deflections, 14 tackles for loss, and 74 total tackles. He has established himself as one of the best defensive linemen of this generation and also in team history. This appearance continues his streak of now six consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, quite the number for the 12-year veteran.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Now 33 years old, his future with the team has come up in the rumor mill since the end of the season. Quite frankly, defensive coordinator, Teryl Austin can't afford to lose Heyward on his defensive front. Since Stephon Tuitt's retirement, Heyward has been the stabilizing force on the defensive line.
What were your thoughts on Heyward's performance this season? Where does 2022 rank amongst his best seasons in his career? Where does he rank amongst Steelers all-time defensive linemen? Share your opinions and thoughts in the comment section below!
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