Pittsburgh Steelers star defensive tackle Cameron Heyward clearly stated a desire "to be valued" as his hold-in continues. Frankly, it's hard to argue with the longtime franchise cornerstone and still-elite contributor seeking a raise. Nonetheless, we're watching him become the distraction he ostensibly knocked new teammate and quarterback Aaron Rodgers for being earlier this offseason.
Back in March, Heyward publicly expressed frustration over Rodgers milking out his free agency. The message was simple yet menacing: Either the four-time MVP signal-caller wants to be a Steeler, or doesn't. Jump to the heart of Pittsburgh's 2025 training camp, and the former isn't practicing for contractual reasons (again) while the latter is present and engaged.
Cam Heyward: “I’m looking to be valued. … I know what I bring to this team and what I’m capable of on and off the field. It’s hard for me, after the year I’ve had, to justify playing at the number I’m playing at.” pic.twitter.com/PK5vK14OUi
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) August 11, 2025
Steelers star Cam Heyward contradicts previous Aaron Rodgers comments with training camp hold-in
Currently the 22nd-highest paid defensive tackle in football by average annual value, Heyward has drastically outperformed that mark. That's why rationalizing suiting up at a $14.75 million price tag this season is difficult, especially after earning his fifth All-Pro nod (and fourth first-team designation). So much so that we could see the 36-year-old skip regular-season contests if the matter isn't resolved before Week 1 of the upcoming campaign. But didn't he call out Rodgers for not giving his full-fledged commitment to the Steelers not too long ago?
Heyward was recently asked about the possibility of missing games, and by the sound of it, nothing is off the table. He understands his worth to the Steelers, both on and off the gridiron, and wants to be compensated accordingly. However, the approach to doing so sets a bad precedent that contradicts how the future Hall of Fame candidate spoke of Rodgers.
"I think there are definitely options out there that could reflect that," Heyward said regarding the idea of sitting out and surrendering game checks (h/t ESPN's Brooke Pryor). He attended Pittsburgh's organized team activities (OTAs) in late May/early June and mandatory minicamp afterward. Alas, you can only expect him to be a good soldier for so long without returning the favor. You can't help but wonder Rodgers' thoughts on the ongoing matter.
For whatever it's worth, Hayward's dollar figure hasn't changed since agreeing to a three-year, $45 million extension last summer. This situation was brewing well before Rodgers' dragged-out, well-chronicled decision-making process ultimately led to the Steelers. The added context only makes the optics of the stalemate between Pittsburgh and its deep-rooted defensive leader worse.
There's no end in sight to Heyward's discussions with the Steelers (or lack thereof), which has led to drastic measures. A reported lack of progress in negotiations has led to the standout defender not being a full participant at camp. Meanwhile, the staring match continues as the two sides wait to see who blinks first.