The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an eventful offseason. They have overhauled the offensive roster. Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are the new quarterbacks, and wide receiver Diontae Johnson got traded to the Panthers. The offseason continues to be eventful for the team. Veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward has been absent from team workouts because of his desire for a new contract. While some fans want him back, others are calling him washed and think he should suck it up and play. In a recent podcast appearance, Heyward had a message for his doubters.
Pittsburgh Steelers Cam Heyward On The Doubters
Cam Heyward went on the Not Just Football podcast and talked about his contract dispute with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is very aware of the doubters and has a long message for those people.
“Just know it’s all screenshotted. Everybody has been having an opinion, and that is just great for me, I tell you that. That is the icing on the cake to all this. And I appreciate you, I love you guys, it’s great you guys all having opinions, and I value them. But I can’t wait to have some fun with this.”
The doubters are a motivation for the 13-year veteran. While player decline happens, Heyward has shown he can still play at a high level. His poor play in recent years has been mostly due to injury. When he is healthy, the stats speak for themselves.
Getting Better With Age
In his first six years with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cam Heyward did not have any Pro Bowl appearances or All-Pro honors. In the past seven years, the 2011 draft pick has had three first-team All-Pro teams, six Pro Bowls, and a second-team All-Pro appearance. He dealt with injuries last year, but in 2021 and 2022, he recorded double-digit sacks. For a defensive tackle, this is impressive. Heyward also brings something to the team that can’t be quantified.
We’ve heard players say it throughout the years. Having veterans like Cam Heyward on the team is beneficial. Veterans can show rookies the ropes or be a rallying force to spark a comeback. Furthermore, they can often use their experience on the field to continue a high level of play even after their athleticism has declined. The Pittsburgh Steelers have a decision to make with Heyward. Will they extend their long-time veteran?
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Matt Brown has been following sports since he was a kid. It does not matter what sport he is talking about; he tends to be an expert in it. When he is not glued to following sports, he is a banker in Wisconsin and hosts two podcasts, Beers and Ears & Discontinued on Display.
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