4 replacement options for the Steelers to address Cam Heyward's long-term absence

Cameron Heyward's injury was worse than many originally thought. The veteran defensive lineman will have surgery according to reports on his groin. Unfortunately, this will keep him out of action for up to eight weeks, which will prove to be a significant test for the Steelers like it was last season with T.J. Watt out of the lineup. Expect the club to try and address this loss internally first before drastic measures are taken.

Another thing that could affect the Steelers attack this issue is the current players on the roster. Keeanu Benton and DeMarvin Leal are likely to be the two that have to step into a role that will try and fill Heyward's void. That is a tall task for these young players, and it could create a lot of headaches on defense and for the leadership of this football team moving forward.

For this reason, an external addition could be required in the absence of Cameron Heyward. Here are four replacement options the Pittsburgh Steelers could explore.

Steelers could add a familiar face off another team's practice squad

The Carolina Panthers just finished signing former Steelers defensive lineman Chris Wormley to their practice squad. He is coming off a season-ending injury a year ago and seems to be on track to be ready for football action around this time. Worlmey is someone that Pittsburgh knows very well and could be a good option to snatch from the Panthers' practice squad.

Wormley is coming off a tough injury that could hinder his career moving forward so that could be a concern. The veteran defensive lineman played well in a depth role in Pittsburgh during his time here and has shown the ability to rush the passer. Perhaps having Benton on the field on rushing downs and adding Wormley into the mix on passing situations would help soften the blow of losing Heyward.