Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Opens Up About The Truth Behind Cam Heyward Missing OTAs: “We Talked Twice Yesterday”

The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off OTAs on Tuesday, with a notable absence. Captain and veteran leader Cam Heyward was not present. This marks the first time in his 13-season career that Heyward is skipping OTAs. Reports indicate that Heyward is sitting out because he wants a new contract.

Now 35 years old, Heyward has expressed his desire to continue playing beyond his current contract and hopes to finalize a new deal with the Steelers, allowing him to finish his career in Pittsburgh. However, Heyward's contract is a significant financial burden for the team, and he is nearing the end of his career. His production declined during the 2023 season, mainly due to an injury he battled through.

Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media as OTAs got underway, and shared his thoughts on Heyward's absence.

“I’m not overly concerned to be quite honest with you. Cam is a guy with over 10,000 plus career snaps. This is probably an easier day for me with him not being here. I thin the lines out and get to know some people that I know less than him. Obviously, I know Cam very well. We have shared a lot of experiences over the years, but he and I talk often. As a matter of fact we talked twice yesterday.”

Tomlin expressed no concern about Heyward missing team activities. He revealed that they communicate regularly, indicating that Heyward is still very much a part of the team's future plans. Tomlin has been keeping Heyward updated about the team, suggesting a strong ongoing relationship and mutual understanding.

“That’s not an irregular thing. That’s what we always do. We talk about not only where he is and what’s going on with him, but where this team is. As a leader, he needs information in that regard.”

Heyward underwent surgery this offseason and is expected to be fully healthy when he returns to the field for the Steelers. It's unclear how the team will handle his request for a new deal, but it seems likely they will find a way to accommodate Heyward without compromising their own interests. Steelers fans will be excited to see Heyward back with the team, whenever that may be.

Steelers' Cam Heyward Is Frustrated With The Media

Heyward took to social media on Tuesday to address some of the reports about him, asserting that they are not true. He stood up for himself, stating that he won't allow anyone to slander his name. Heyward also revealed that he has kept screenshots of all the negative comments he has encountered. He is eager to prove that he is still capable of being a game-changer on the defensive line in 2024.

The Steelers will need everything Heyward has to offer as they aim to end their playoff drought and surprise fans by becoming contenders in 2024. The season continues to get closer and the excitement in the Steel City is at a high. 

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