Cam Heyward Requested New Steelers Contract in February, Discusses Possible Holdout

A key member of the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense could conduct a holdout if he doesn't receive a new contract before the start of the season.

Star defensive tackle Cam Heyward said he requested a new contract in February and is still waiting for one with the start of the season just a few weeks away.

“When I signed the deal last year, I told them when I have an All-Pro year, I wanna come back (and renegotiate)… everyone kinda giggled," Heyward said.

As far as allowing a possible holdout to stretch into the regular season, Heyward didn't rule out the possibility.

"There are definitely options out there that could reflect that," he said.

Heyward has spent his entire career with the Steelers, earning four First-team All-Pro nods, including last season when he recorded 35 tackles, eight sacks, 12 tackles for loss and 20 quarterback hits. Heyward also received some Defensive Player of the Year votes, finishing 13th in voting.

"I know what I bring to this team and what I'm capable of, on and off the field," Heyward said. "So, it's hard for me to, after the year I've had, to justify playing at the number I'm playing at."

Heyward is entering the second year of a two-year, $29 million contract. His average salary of $14.5 million per year ranks 22nd among defensive tackles and 36th among all defensive linemen. He has already earned $13.45 million of his $14.75 million for the 2025 season as part of a roster bonus.

“Looking for my contract to be addressed,” Heyward said. “Honestly, looking to be valued.”

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported last week that Heyward and the Steelers have had contract talks, "but have not made any progress on any reworked deal."

Though he's 36 years old heading into the 2025 season, it's still fair to argue that Heyward is underpaid for his production, especially after the market was reset for defensive players the past few offseasons.

Top defensive players like Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby and Heyward's teammate, TJ Watt got record-setting deals this year. Specifically at Heyward's position, Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs is making more than $30 million per year, with other defensive tackles near that range as well.

While Heyward might not be worth a record-setting contract, the reset market means he's become undervalued.