Cameron Heyward is getting the raise he'd been looking for just ahead of the 2025 season opener.
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Heyward have agreed to terms on a revised contract for the 2025 season that will add $3.2 million in incentives tied to playoffs and playoff wins, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo reported Saturday.
Heyward, who can now earn close to $18 million this season, will start in Sunday's road game against the Jets after reworking his contract, per The Insiders.
A longstanding captain for Pittsburgh's defense, Heyward's presence is vital for the Steelers.
The 36-year-old is coming off his seventh Pro Bowl season, in which he collected 71 tackles (12 for loss), eight sacks, 20 QB hits and 11 pass break-ups in a campaign that saw the Steelers clinch a wild-card berth.
Heyward's contract impasse began as the Steelers broke training camp in early August. The 14-year veteran remained with the club but didn't participate in most team practices. His hold-in reached a crossroads this past Friday when he wasn't willing to make a firm commitment to playing in Sunday's season opener.
Any potential distraction of a Heyward absence is no longer following Saturday's contract resolution.
The Steelers are set to kickoff in New York at 1 p.m. ET.
