LATROBE, PA (93.7 The Fan) – Reports emerged as Steelers practice began Thursday of Cam Heyward wanting a restructured contract after just signing a new, two-year extension last year through the 2026 season. Heyward was in attendance Thursday afternoon at St. Vincent College, but did not practice.
What he had been doing was individual drills on the side and not participating during most full team periods. After the workout, when approached by reporters, Heyward declined interview requests.
According to Schefter’s report, Heyward is seeking more money as several, including teammate TJ Watt, have raised the bar for what the best defensive players in the NFL are making. Heyward is scheduled to make $29 million over the next two seasons and has already received a $13.4 million roster bonus to go with a $1.3 million base salary for this year. Next year it is another $1.3 million in salary with a $12.9 million roster bonus per spotrac.com.
“I don’t think the communication has changed,” said Steelers defensive lineman Keeanu Benton. “He’s come out here and worked his tail off, just in different ways. He’s still out here being a leader, so I respect him for that.”
It was last year that Heyward didn’t appear during voluntary work and eventually showed up and was able to reach his new deal. This offseason it was back-and-forth with TJ Watt as he missed mini-camp before he became the highest paid defensive player in NFL history.
“I don’t think it’s a distraction,” Benton said. “He still puts his two cents in when it comes to teaching us techniques and stuff like that. I don’t think it changes for us.”
Schefter also reported kicker Chris Boswell privately has been seeking a new contract. Three years ago, he was the highest paid kicker in the league, but now is the lowest-paid kicker in his division. Coming off an All-Pro season, Boswell reportedly wants more even though his current contract runs through 2026.
Boswell was not at practice Thursday. Neither player is scheduled to play in the preseason opener on Saturday. Mike Tomlin was unavailable for comment after practice.