The Pittsburgh Steelers received unexpected news when it was revealed that veteran Cam Heyward would be skipping Organized Team Activities (OTAs) for the first time in his career. The reason behind his absence from OTAs was that Heyward was seeking a new deal.
%202023%20Camp%20Final%20with%20Logos/2L9A7970-544x306.jpg "Steelers Cam Heyward")
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward (#97) laughs in the direction of edge rusher TJ Watt (#90) as Pittsburgh practices during 2023 training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
However, on Tuesday, Steelers insider Gerry Dulac reported that Heyward is officially back with the team.
DE Cam Heyward back at Steelers facility today for third week of OTAs.
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) June 4, 2024
This development comes as a relief to many fans and teammates who hold Heyward in high regard for his contributions both on and off the field. The Steelers' defense is expected to be a dominant force during the 2024 season. There were slight concerns that Heyward might not be part of that if he didn't get a new deal, though it always felt like Heyward was not going to hold out or do anything drastic.
Associated Press / GENE J. PUSKAR
Steelers' Cam Heyward walks past Pittsburgh fans.
The 2023 season for Heyward was filled with challenges. It began with a groin injury in the first game, which sidelined him until Week 9. This injury hampered his performance throughout the year, leading many fans to believe that his career was in decline due to his age. Some even suggested that Heyward should take a pay cut if he wanted to continue playing for the Steelers.
Heyward was frustrated by the idea that fans would think he needed to take a pay cut. He believes he has earned every penny of his salary. His career stats back this up: 647 combined tackles, 121 tackles for loss, and 80.5 sacks. Heyward has been one of the most dominant defensive linemen of the last decade. However, age in the NFL is a serious factor, and the league is focused on current performance, not past achievements. Despite this, Heyward feels he still has a few seasons of prime football left in him.
Steelers' Cam Heyward Is Hungry To Prove His Haters Wrong
The Steelers now have Heyward back with the team, which is exciting news for fans. At 35 years old, Heyward faced heavy criticism for his performance during the 2023 season, with some believing he had lost a step. Eager to prove he is still one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL, Heyward is ready for a revenge season.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers DT Cam Heyward and LB TJ Watt celebrate a sack in their Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
While it is unclear what prompted his return or why he waited so long, the team is certainly thrilled to have him back. Despite what fans saw from Heyward in the 2023 season, he is confident he can prove his doubters wrong and have a very productive year. After undergoing surgery this offseason for his groin injury, Heyward is excited to be back to playing at full strength in 2024.
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