
For the second consecutive summer, Cameron Heyward isn’t practicing due to contract issues. Last year ended with a two-year extension, and now he seeks a payday adjustment before the 2025 season. Currently, he has two years remaining on his contract earning $14.75 million this season and $14.5 million in 2026. Presently, Heyward ranks 22nd among interior defensive linemen based on salary, which he feels undervalues his contribution on the field. He stated his willingness to hold out into the regular season if his contract remains unsettled. “Honestly, I’d love to be valued,” Heyward said. He emphasized his capabilities and past contributions while noting he might return to contract discussions after a successful 2024 season. Despite his current deal being less than a year old, Heyward expressed that he warned the Steelers to expect him back at the negotiating table should he have an All-Pro year. Despite his age and entering 36 this offseason, he believes he still plays at an elite level, as evidenced by his 2024 performance which included eight sacks and a Pro Bowl selection.