Steelers Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada Describes How The Unique Talents Connor Heyward Can Help The Offense With In 2023

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a number of big time moves in both free agency as well as the 2023 NFL Draft. With so many new faces coming aboard, it is easy to forget about players who were already on the team prior to this offseason. While fans are ecstatic to see players such as Allen Robinson II, Darnell Washington and Broderick Jones suit up in the black and gold, there may be a second-year skill position who could end up being an even bigger difference maker for the offense this upcoming season, Connor Heyward.  

There has been an extensive amount of conversation this offseason regarding which position Heyward will play in 2023. Will he take over the fullback responsibilities from Derek Watt? Will he emerge himself as the TE2 behind Pat Freiermuth? Difficult to answer at this point in the offseason, as even offensive coordinator Matt Canada is unsure of where the former Michigan State standout will line up next season. During a recent interview following the team's second day of mandatory veteran minicamp, Canada detailed how the Steelers might use Heyward. 

"Connor [Heyward] is a guy I'm a big fan of. His versatility, what is he? That's the big question everybody asks. If somebody figures it out, let me know, because he's good at a lot of different things," Canada said. 

Is The Hype Surrounding Heyward Legitimate?

All jokes aside regarding Canada not knowing the answer to a question regarding the Steelers' offense, the coaching staff will most likely have to be creative in getting Heyward on the field in 2023. At only 6'0" tall, he lacks the ideal size at the tight end position. He certainly is capable of fulfilling the fullback role, but that alone will not provide him with enough snaps to be a featured component of the offense. So where exactly would he fit best? 

Heyward may not have a clear identity when it comes to his position, but he certainly has one with his playing style. Whether it be blocking, catching or receiving a jet sweep at the end of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders to seal a win on Christmas Eve, the guy gives it all he has. He is far from an overly impressive athlete but possesses the indescribable "it-factor" that has quickly made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. 

Playing multiple positions may seem like a disservice for Heyward, however, it may end up working to his advantage in 2023. If the opposing defense doesn't know the role he will play in a given week, it may be difficult for them to game plan for him. During the same interview, Canada described how Heyward's unique talents as a football player will end up providing favorable matchups for the Kenny Pickett-lead offensive attack. 

"To the prior question about matchups, he [Heyward] fits that mold. Who are you going to put on Connor? Connor is a unique talent and we're excited about him as well," Canada answered. 

Steelers Should Embrace Heyward's Versatility In 2023

Heyward's rookie campaign demonstrated his capability of being a serviceable component of the Steelers' offense. His willingness to play different roles, including special teams, will most likely be the best way to continue this upward trajectory in 2023. He is talented enough of a receiver to play in-line tight end, yet also tough enough to play fullback and clear running lanes for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. 

In today's NFL, versatility is the name of the game. More than ever, teams are asking players to play multiple positions to help create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. While Heyward is certainly far from the most exciting player on the team's roster, he could very well end up playing a much more significant role than what many people realize. If the Steelers embrace the versatility that the second-year utility player holds, he has a chance to be known for much more than simply being the younger brother of Cam Heyward. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation?

How do Yinz feel about Canada's comments regarding Heyward? Do you think he will be a difference-maker in 2023? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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