4 reasons Steelers fans should be thankful this season

With Thanksgiving week here, these four aspects of the team are something that we should all be thankful for as Steelers fans.

Considering the storied history of this franchise, we as Steelers fans have a lot to be thankful for. From the stout history in the ’70s to the rebirth of the team’s dominance in the early 2000s, this team has given its fans so much to remember.

Even now, with the franchise about to enter a new era. Here are four aspects of this team that the Steelers should be thankful for in 2021.

Steelers Cameron Heyward

So much can be said about Cameron Heyward, and all of it is well deserved. Heyward was relatively quiet during his first two years for the team, but he quickly exploded on the scene. He is a complete player, as he can get a push in both the run and pass defense. While it has taken him longer than it should have, Heyward is now being recognized as one of the best interior linemen in the game.

What’s even more impressive is that Heyward was truly a changing of the guard for the team. Before Heyward, a Steelers’ defensive end was tasked with taking up space and opening holes for the linebackers to make plays. The Brett Keisel’s and Aaron Smith’s of the world come to mind. Heyward brought along the next wave of interior players, as he is a force when rushing the passer.

With Heyward at the helm, this line and front seven have entered a new age of pass-rushing excellence. It has paved the way for a player like Stephon Tuitt to be effective as well. While a switch to a more pass-focused defense was inevitable, Heyward blazed that trail for the team. We as fans owe Heyward a huge thank you for helping bring this defense around to a modern force to be reckoned with.