Cam Heyward’s contract drama has finally come to an end.
The Steelers and their star defensive tackle reached an agreement Saturday, with the new deal adding over $3 million in incentives and allowing the seven-time Pro Bowler to earn up to $18 million this season, per multiple reports.
Heyward will also reportedly play against the Jets for Pittsburgh’s season-opener Sunday.
The standoff between Heyward and the Steelers started in early August, with the 36-year-old staying with the team but not participating in most practices.
Heyward’s camp argued for the increase in pay following an impressive comeback season in 2024, which saw him make his fourth All-Pro team.
Despite signing a three-year deal worth $45 million before last season, Heyward apparently told the Steelers’ front office to be prepared to negotiate again if he had a strong 2024 season.
Additionally, Heyward also noted that the team asked him to take a pay cut ahead of last season.
“I understand I signed a contract last year, but to be completely honest with you, when I signed that, I told them, ‘When I have an All-Pro year, expect me to come back [to the bargaining table],”‘ Heyward told reporters in August. “I think everybody kind of giggled a little bit. I used it as motivation.”
The defensive lineman recorded 71 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and eight sacks while helping Pittsburgh to a 10-7 record.
“Honestly, I’m looking to be valued,” Heyward said in August. “In my eyes, when I look around at my position, I think I’m 22nd [in compensation] as a defensive tackle, I’m 32nd as a defensive lineman. I know what I bring to this team and what I’m capable of on and off the field.
“It’s hard for me, after the year I had, to justify playing at the number I’m playing at.”
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