Cam Heyward Doesn't Commit to Playing in Steelers vs. Jets amid Push for New Contract

Pittsburgh Steelers veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward was noncommittal about playing in the team's upcoming Week 1 matchup with the New York Jets due to a contract dispute.

"I don't want to have to think about that," Heyward said when asked about his availability for the season without a reworked contract, per ESPN's Brooke Pryor. "I'd like to think cooler heads prevail, and we move forward, but if it does get to that, we'll cross that bridge when we get there."

He also didn't confirm if his playing status on Sunday would be dependent on a new deal.

"I wish I had a straight answer for you right now," Heyward said, per Pryor. "All I can tell you is I've had to have a lot of tough conversations with my family."

The 36-year-old discussed the overall response to his request for a reworked contract as well.

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo noted that Heyward was a full participant in Friday's practice.

He practiced on Wednesday, but didn't appear in Thursday's session with a veteran rest day designation.

Heyward is set to earn $14.75 million this season after signing a two-year, $29 million extension with the Steelers in Sept. 2024. The seven-time Pro Bowler is looking for a raise on his average salary, briefly holding in during training camp as he searched for one.

The deadline for a potential agreement appears to be drawing closer, as Pittsburgh has a policy of not negotiating contracts during the season.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters Tuesday that he expects Heyward to suit up against the Jets.

Despite Heyward's age and experience, he's remained a key piece on Pittsburgh's defensive front in recent years. He racked up 71 tackles, 24 pressures, 12 tackles for loss, 11 passes defensed and eight sacks while appearing in all 17 regular-season contests during his 2024 campaign.

Heyward's presence will be needed on a Pittsburgh defensive front already dealing with an injury, as first-round rookie Derrick Harmon won't play in Week 1 due to an MCL sprain.

Kickoff between the Steelers and Jets is on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.