Though it really isn’t a surprise at this point, Cameron Heyward proved once again this month why he’s the reigning Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
On the field, Heyward has made the Pro Bowl six times. He has racked up 647 career tackles, 179 QB hits and 80.5 sacks over the past 13 years. When he’s not on the gridiron, he’s doing what he can to help out his community.
Last weekend, Heyward teamed up with Little Caesars to serve pizza outside of the Mt. Aratat Community Activity Center.
We caught up with Cameron Heyward to discuss his latest work with Little Caesars, his upcoming season with the Steelers and much more.
The Spun: Can you tell us about your work with the Little Caesars Love Kitchen?
Cameron Heyward: First of all, I love pizza. You can’t go wrong with that. After the NFL partnered with them, it was just a match made in heaven. It was an opportunity to work with a company that shares the same values as me. It’s really great to see them dedicate their time to giving back to the community, and it’s not because I was named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. I genuinely love the opportunity to serve my community.
The Spun: You had a groin injury last season. How are you feeling heading into the summer?
CH: I’m near 100 percent. I’m looking forward to this year because I won’t have to talk about my groin anymore. My goal is to keep playing for my teammates and help in any way possible. I’m looking forward to getting back at it.
The Spun: Have you thought about how many more years you want to play?
CH: I’ve had time to think about it, and my goal is to play three more years. Not a lot of people can say they’ve played as long as I have.
The Spun: Who’s your favorite to quarterback to hit? If you have one, of course.
CH: It’s always fun when you tackle the G.O.A.T. in Tom Brady, but my favorite quarterback to sack is probably the next one. There are always more on the list.
The Spun: What do you think Patrick Queen will bring to Pittsburgh’s defense?
CH: I think he’s been on the dark side for so long that he’s finally on the good side. He’ll help us stop the run and pass. I’ve seen him play well on the other side. To bring him to our team is pretty special.
The Spun: The Steelers overhauled their quarterback room. What do you think about the team adding Russell Wilson and Justin Fields?
CH: I think we’re just trying to learn each other. We’re not going to run before we walk. It’s a process for sure. We’ll take it step by step.
The Spun: We’ve seen plenty of former players make the jump to TV. Is that something you’d be interested in?
CH: I’m enjoying what I’m doing, and I don’t want to jump to something else. When I get there though, I think there’ll be some opportunities.
The Spun: Last month, you revealed you finally watched The Godfather. I’m a big movie fan, so what’s another movie you haven’t watched yet that you really want to get around to?
CH: I’m making my rounds. There are a lot of movies I still haven’t watched. Let’s go with Scarface.
The Spun: What does it mean to you that whenever you retire you won’t just be remembered as a good football player, but a great member in the community?
CH: It means a lot. When you look at what Little Caesars has done, it’s an opportunity to give back. I think it’s what I try to do. I want to find ways to exceed doing the bare minimum. It’s always been my mainstay and it’s what I try to accomplish. I want to do more than I’m supposed to do.
***
You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.