Despite having a strong 2025 campaign, many believe the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to cut defensive end Cameron Heyward before free agency. Heyward held out for his contract to be adjusted last offseason, which may come back to haunt him this year. However, the long-time Steeler has been one of the most consistent playmakers in the league. Originally selected in the first-round, the former Ohio State product is slated to make almost $20 million, and the team has the opportunity to release him to save more than half.
The Steelers haven’t commented on whether or not what the future holds for Heyward. Entering the 15th season of his career, the veteran is obviously not getting any younger. The cap casualty could be applied to safety standout Jalen Ramsey and linebacker Patrick Queen, who is coming off a down year. Pittsburgh could release Heyward, but it will be dependent on what happens to quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Steelers Cameron Heyward Predicted as Shocking Cut; 3 Possible Suitors Emerge
After the Steelers hired new head coach Mike McCarthy, the rumor has been that Rodgers is teasing a return. There hasn’t been any word on what the veteran wants, but it shouldn’t be surprising to see him back in Pittsburgh to run it for one more season with McCarthy. Either way, this won’t be the same roster five years from now. The Steelers will need to figure out if Heyward’s price tag is worth it, given that he’s getting older and is no longer in his prime.
If Rodgers decides to call it a career, don’t be surprised if Heyward is cut. The seven-time Pro Bowler is one of the oldest active players in the league, other than Calais Campbell. Here are some possible suitors for Heyward if the Steelers decide to move forward in a different direction this offseason.
Next Possible Fits
Los Angeles Chargers
Despite the Chargers losing defensive coordinator Jesse Minter to the Ravens, the team must do something to revitalize the defense. After letting Poona Ford hit the market last offseason, the Chargers have somewhat struggled to make an impact. Still, Teair Tart held his ground and did much of the dirty work, which earned him a multi-year extension. However, if the Chargers want a true hard-hitting, old-school defense, Heyward might be the latest calling card for this defense.
Washington Commanders
Meanwhile, the Commanders probably won’t eye any veteran this offseason with Bobby Wagner, Von Miller and Deebo Samuel set for free agency. With both old offensive and defensive coordinators gone, it’s hard to imagine they sign Heyward. Despite that, the Commanders have quarterback Jayden Daniels under contract for two more seasons, and if he breaks out again, similar to his rookie year, the price only goes up. This means if the Commanders are going to spend money on Daniels, then they should maximize their cap now this offseason and snatch a new set of veterans that could help this team appear in the Super Bowl.
Philadelphia Eagles
Nobody should put it past Eagles GM Howie Roseman not to be aggressive this offseason. After acquiring Jaelan Phillips and Jaire Alexander this past year via a trade, the Eagles have been no strangers to improving this team’s quality of impactful players. Jalen Carter is emerging as one of the best defensive ends in the league, but he needs help.
Heyward isn’t in his prime anymore, but if he’s released, he could help this defense win another championship alongside Carter, making this defensive line scary.