The Pittsburgh Steelers received surprising news just before the start of Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Team captain and veteran leader, Cam Heyward announced he would be skipping OTAs, demanding a new deal from the organization before returning to the field.
Heyward has since rejoined the team, but indicated that no progress has been made regarding his request for a new contract. Despite this, it seems unlikely that Heyward will miss the 2024 season with the Steelers. However, the complexities of NFL decision-making and its business aspects are difficult to fully predict.
The Steelers have a longstanding policy of not negotiating new deals with players during the season. Steelers General Manager Omar Khan appeared on The PM Team w/Poni & Mueller on Thursday, where he faced tough questions, including one about Heyward's request for a new deal. Khan provided some insight into the organization's stance on Heyward.
“We love having Cam [Heyward] around. You know Cam is an awesome, not only player, I mean he has a Hall of Fame resume, and he has a Hall of Fame personality too. He is great to have around, he is great for those young guys, he is great for the organization and he is great for the community. Anytime you see Cam in here and see that smile, it's just awesome to have him around.”
Khan was effusive in his praise for Heyward, highlighting his dominance both on and off the field throughout his career in Pittsburgh. Heyward, who won the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, has been a pivotal figure for the team. While Steelers fans are eagerly awaiting the organization’s response to Heyward's request for a new deal, Khan shared an interesting tidbit during his appearance.
“It is an awesome policy. That policy [was here] even before Kevin [Colbert] and I got here. It is a good policy and once we get in the season, I am a big believer it should all be focused on football. Obviously, there is a business aspect to this and that is ok, but once we get in the season, it is to focus on the season.”
This means that if the Steelers and Heyward do not agree on a new deal before the 2024 season officially begins, Heyward will have no chance of getting his request met during the season.
He has until Week 1 to finalize his new deal, if given. If an agreement is not reached, Heyward might proceed with a legitimate hold-in.
Steelers' Cam Heyward Still Hopeful For A New Deal
A hold-in occurs when a player shows up on time for training camp, but does not participate in team activities until his contract dispute is resolved. If Heyward decides not to play in 2024 due to the lack of a new deal, it would be surprising but possible. The Steelers could also consider trading Heyward if an agreement cannot be reached.
The Heyward contract saga remains a compelling storyline this offseason. The Steelers' policy of not negotiating deals with players during the season will continue to hold. Time is running out for Heyward and the organization to reach a new agreement. Steelers fans are eagerly watching to see what will happen with the iconic Heyward.
