Some people say money doesn’t make the world go ‘round. But in the NFL, it certainly oils the gears. Just look at the Pittsburgh Steelers. This offseason, GM Omar Khan opened the checkbook in hopes of transforming the team from postseason hopefuls to legitimate contenders. Big names like Aaron Rodgers, Darius Slay, and Jonnu Smith now wear black and gold — a testament to how far Khan is willing to go in pursuit of greatness.
But one particular transaction raised more eyebrows than cheers: the latest contract adjustment for veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward.
Let me be clear: I have immense respect for what Heyward has meant to this franchise. Fifteen years of leadership, production, and grit. Eight sacks last season? That’s not easy. He’s been a pillar of Teryl Austin’s defense for years, and his resume speaks for itself.
That’s why his three-year extension in 2024 made sense — even if it surprised outsiders. It was a move rooted in loyalty and recognition.
But this summer, Heyward seemed to want more. More money, more guarantees, and more power. Despite signing a new extension less than a year ago, he chose to “hold in” during training camp — attending team activities but refusing to fully participate until his deal was restructured.
For a team trying to gel and compete in a tight AFC, the timing felt off.
Eventually, the front office blinked. Heyward received a revised deal that bumped his potential 2024 earnings from $14.75 million to $18 million. That’s a hefty bump for a player on the wrong side of 35, no matter how decorated the resume.
But then came Week 1.
And if Heyward was aiming to silence critics or prove his worth immediately, he missed the mark.
The Pittsburgh Steelers deserve more from Cameron Heyward after Week 1 performance
Facing a retooled New York Jets offense led by Justin Fields, the Steelers defense was overwhelmed — and Heyward was largely invisible. Pro Football Focus gave him a pedestrian 68.4 overall grade and an underwhelming 62.7 against the run. Pittsburgh surrendered a brutal 182 rushing yards and looked far from the elite unit fans had been promised all offseason.
It’s hard not to feel a bit frustrated. Heyward made waves over finances, flirted with sitting out, and then delivered a performance that didn’t even crack “solid.” That’s not what you expect from a cornerstone player who just got paid — again.
Of course, it’s only Week 1.
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And I’m not here to write off a legend after one underwhelming game. But in a sport that’s driven by performance and accountability, veterans must lead by example. That means showing up when it counts — not just during contract negotiations.
Heyward has the pedigree. He has the respect. And now, once again, he has the paycheck. But that comes with expectations. Fans — myself included — want to see the on-field impact match the off-field drama.
If Heyward wants to be paid like a difference-maker, it’s time to play like one.
Because in Pittsburgh, legacy matters — but production still talks louder than money.