Overview

• Heyward notified the Steelers of his request in February following a first-team All-Pro season in 2024 under a two-year extension that runs through 2026.
• He is conducting a hold-in at camp by attending meetings and individual workouts but opting out of fully-padded 11-on-11 drills.
• Heyward said he is willing to sit out regular-season games if Pittsburgh does not increase his guaranteed money.
• Coach Mike Tomlin and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin have publicly downplayed any disruption and emphasized Heyward’s ongoing leadership.
• Pittsburgh is exploring converting future roster bonuses into guarantees to address cap constraints and reflect the rising market for defensive linemen.