The Steelers were awarded rights to expand their brand and activities on the island of Ireland as part of the NFL's 'Global Markets Program' in 2023, hosting multiple events in Ireland, including the first ever Steelers Draft Party in 2025, as well as youth football clinics and Steelers watch parties since 2023.
Now with a regular season game in Ireland, the players are excited to bring a new sport to Ireland, one that differs from what fans might be accustomed to.
"We got such a warm welcome when we here in Dublin," said Heyward. "It should create a really cool atmosphere for all Steelers fans coming over from the States. It's just going to be a really cool place to play.
"They've got a lot of different sports going on in Ireland. There's rugby, Gaelic football and hurling. They talk about our game being very complicated, but I think Gaelic football and rugby are two of the more complicated sports I've ever seen.
"And getting to play at Croke Park, you can just feel the history there. For an NFL regular season game to be there, it's going to be really special. The fans are going to be locked in. I got to take in a rugby game, and if they get that rowdy for a rugby game, they're going to love an NFL game."
While some players have already had the opportunity to visit Dublin, it will be the first time some players will be heading abroad and they can't wait.
"I've never used my passport before," said linebacker Nick Herbig. "I've never been out of the country. Just that experience alone for me will be special. It shows you the things football can do for you.
"And I know we have a huge fan base in Ireland. Being able to go there and perform for them and put on a show. It's awesome."
Fans can register for ticket information at [nfl.com/dublin](https://shp.csharmony.epsilon.com/pages/NFL_US/Dublin_ROI). Tickets will go on sale this summer.
Earlier this year, the Steelers entered into a four-year partnership with Aer Lingus establishing the airline as the Official Airline of Steelers Ireland and a Founding Partner of Steelers Ireland. Aer Lingus offers convenient travel options for fans making their way to Dublin this fall, with 21 direct routes from North America to Ireland. The airline also flies 70 routes from Europe and the UK to the Irish capital. Aer Lingus will ensure that Steelers fans from the US, as well as the UK and Europe, enjoy the most seamless journey to Ireland.
The full NFL schedule will be revealed on Wednesday, May 15 at 8 p.m.