Steelers’ Cam Heyward Holds Out for Contract Raise

Pittsburgh Steelers captain and star defensive lineman Cam Heyward has not fully participated in training camp due to a contract dispute as he seeks a pay raise and a restructured deal. Heyward, 36, is in the second year of a three-year contract averaging $15 million per season but has no guaranteed money remaining, making him the 36th highest-paid defensive lineman despite his All-Pro performance last year. Talks with the Steelers have stalled, and the team's policy against in-season negotiations makes a resolution unlikely before the 2026 season. Heyward has expressed his intent to play two to three more years and remains a crucial leader on the team. The Steelers have recently given large contracts to players such as T.J. Watt and DK Metcalf, adding context to Heyward's demands. The situation remains unresolved as training camp progresses.