After adding players like Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, and DK Metcalf, the Pittsburgh Steelers had high hopes for the 2025 season. Unfortunately, Mike Tomlin's team came crashing back down to earth after a promising 4-1 start to the season.
The Steelers now sit on a 6-5 record heading into their Week 13 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, and the Baltimore Ravens leapfrogged them for first place in the AFC North.
With no guarantees of even making the playoffs, Pittsburgh could be headed for significant change during the offseason, and its longest-tenured player could be playing his last games with the team.
Cameron Heyward has been a staple of the Steelers' roster for over a decade. Despite still playing at a high level, Pittsburgh could look to move in a different direction during the 2026 offseason—one that no longer includes their 2011 first-round pick.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could wave goodbye to Cameron Heyward after the 2025 season
Cam Heyward has been everything the Pittsburgh Steelers could have dreamed of in a defensive tackle. One of the longest-tenured players in team history built an outstanding resume during his time in Pittsburgh and was part of the Steelers' top-ranked defenses in 2019 and 2020.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Heyward will turn 37 years old in May. And if the Steelers make it nine straight years without a playoff win, general manager Omar Khan could look to move in a direction that doesn't include the four-time First-Team All-Pro and long-time team captain.
During the 2026 offseason, Heyward will be preparing for his 16th NFL season. While the Steelers have him under contract for one more year—and it's possible he plays out the final year of his deal or retires—this could be the end of the line in Pittsburgh.
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Heyward has a $19.15 million cap number for the 2026 season, according to Over The Cap. The veteran defensive tackle has a $12.95 million roster bonus that kicks in when the new league year opens, and the Steelers could save $14.25 million in cap space by cutting him loose after his 2025 campaign.
There's no question that Heyward makes the Steelers' roster better (even in his old age). However, the Steelers are on track to have 12 draft picks next April, per Tankathon.com, and the front office could do some housecleaning. Heyward could be a cap casualty as the team looks to get younger—particularly on the defensive side of the football.
Pittsburgh Steelers fans can be thankful for everything Cameron Heyward has offered this team over the years. Sadly, the Steelers are going nowhere fast, and the 2026 offseason could prompt significant change.