Cam Heyward, Steelers Discussing New Contract; DT Wants to Play 3 More NFL Seasons

Cam Heyward is 35 years old and entering the final year of his contract, but he isn't thinking about retirement.

Instead, he is thinking about a new deal and playing for three more seasons.

Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported Heyward arrived to OTAs on Tuesday after skipping the first two weeks because of his contract situation. The defensive lineman said he plans on playing for the next three seasons and is discussing a new deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers even if there is still a gap for the two sides to cover.

"There's been communication, but there's nothing to really report on now," Heyward said. "I don't think a deal gets done tomorrow, I'll tell you that, but there's communication. We'll see where it takes us."

It is something of a tricky negotiation for the Steelers in particular, as the Ohio State product has been a defensive leader for the team throughout a career that dates back to the first round of the 2011 NFL draft.

However, he is also coming off an injury shortened season that saw him miss six games because of a groin setback that required surgery. He also underwent another surgery on his groin after the campaign, although he said it "feels great" now.

The injuries resulted in a disappointing season, as he finished with 33 tackles and two sacks after posting 74 tackles and 10.5 sacks as a Pro Bowler in 2022. His resume features three First-Team All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl nods, and he has 80.5 sacks for his career.

Heyward is set to make $16 million in base salary in 2024, which only Jeffery Simmons of the Tennessee Titans ($16.5 million) can beat at the defensive tackle position. But Heyward is also focused on the next contract and not his current one.

"I'm looking to be here," he said. "The value is what we decide. For me, I want to be valued at my position. I understand I came off a rough season, but I don't think it's a step down from where I can play. I'm still at the top of my game. I'm still a top-five player at my position. I play the run and the pass. I bring leadership. It's not anything I discount."

At this point, the Steelers have to weigh the production Heyward has always brought when healthy with the age and potential injury concerns at this stage of his career.

Three years isn't a significant long-term commitment, but it's not a short one either. It wouldn't be a surprise if the negotiations continue well into the offseason as the two sides present their cases.