Steelers’ Keeanu Benton Revealing Cam Heyward Is Still Playing A Major Role Despite Skipping OTAs: “Still Heard As A Captain”

The Pittsburgh Steelers received some surprising news when it was revealed that long-standing veteran captain Cam Heyward would be skipping Organized Team Activities (OTAs) for the first time in his career. This decision stems from Heyward's desire for a new contract with the team. Now 35, Heyward is entering the final year of a four-year, $64 million extension and is seeking a new deal before rejoining the team.

Despite questions about his age and recent performance, Heyward remains confident that he has three years of solid football left in him. It will be interesting to see what solution the Steelers' front office works out with Heyward, a player they hold in high regard.

Although Heyward's absence has been noted, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin revealed that he remains in daily contact with Heyward. One of the younger players on the defensive line who has formed a solid relationship with Heyward is Keeanu Benton. He is inspired by the communication he has had with Heyward, despite not being at OTAs.

After a practice, reporter Aaron Becker interviewed Benton about Heyward's absence. Benton revealed that Heyward is still very much involved, despite skipping the team activities.

“We talk to him and kind of let him know. He asks questions about what’s going on here and how he can help, even though he is not here. He still helps mentally especially. He’s a guy that’s not in here right now, but he’s still heard as a captain.”

The idea of a veteran player skipping OTAs is not usually a major concern. However, the reasoning behind Heyward's decision to skip does raise some eyebrows. The Steelers love Heyward, and he has been a significant part of their success. 

Although he hasn't had much postseason success recently, the 2024 season is expected to change that. While it is likely that Heyward will rejoin the team and be on the field in 2024, how the Steelers choose to handle his request for a new contract remains to be seen.

In the business side of the NFL, logic often prevails, and the Steelers already owe Heyward a substantial amount of money. Offering him a significant new deal at this stage in his career might not seem wise. However, they could make an exception for a player they value as much as Heyward, the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award winner.

Pundits close to the Steelers believe Pittsburgh would prefer to see Heyward play before offering him a new deal. It will be very interesting to see how the front office handles Heyward's request. If Heyward and the Steelers cannot reach an agreement, he could be traded or hold out entirely. 

Steelers' Cam Heyward Will Likely Play For Pittsburgh In 2024

The thought of Heyward finishing his career outside of Pittsburgh seems unlikely, but it could become a reality. For now, it's reassuring to know how involved he has been with the team and the younger players during his absence. Heyward has stated that he needs to make the best decision for himself. 

Football is a short-lived career, and it's important to secure every penny possible. Heyward is making the best decision for himself, and the Steelers will do the same. His continued involvement with the team and players, like Benton, indicates he has no true plans of not playing for the Steelers in 2024.

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