'Could Be Fun': Steelers' Heyward Reveals Thoughts on Leaving Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Cam Heyward has repeatedly wanted to be a “one helmet guy.” And despite the frustration of a lack of progress on a contract extension, Heyward showed up for the final week of voluntary OTAs to get his work in.

“I have talked to my wife (Allie), and we know the reality, and we have had those talks, and she said it could be fun to play somewhere else,” Heyward said at his locker this week. “If that is what is needed to be done, then so be it.”

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The Steelers, who have a long-standing rule of never negotiating contracts during the season, have just under three months remaining until the self-imposed September 8th deadline to reach a deal with Heyward.

An injury-plagued season a year ago limited his productivity, but Heyward registered at least 10 sacks in each of the previous two seasons. He wants to stay in Pittsburgh and has made that very clear. However, he told The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly that if he has to move on, then so be it.

Even without a contract beyond this season, Heyward has shown up and been the leader he has always been. The three-time All-Pro and Walter Payton Man of the Year has the right attitude, even if this is his last year in Pittsburgh.

“That’s captain activity right there,” fellow defensive tackle Keeanu Benton said of Heyward. “This is what he lives for. He lives to play ball, and this is his team. He is the captain of this team."