connor Heyward
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New Las Vegas Raiders FB Connor Heyward.
The Las Vegas Raiders were the biggest spenders to start free agency, but a wrench was thrown into their plans when the Baltimore Ravens backed out of their agreement to trade for defensive end Maxx Crosby. The team slowed down with the signings, but now they’re getting back on track.
The Raiders didn’t utilize a fullback last season, but that won’t be the case in 2026. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Las Vegas has struck a deal with former Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Connor Heyward on a two-year deal worth up to $5.5 million.
Heyward also has experience playing tight end and has 44 career catches, but the Raiders already have a stacked tight end room, so he’ll most likely spend most of his snaps at fullback.
Notably, Heyward is the brother of All-Pro Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward. He spent his entire career playing in Pittsburgh with his brother, but has decided to head to Las Vegas for a fresh start.
Heyward has never missed a game in his NFL career, so the Raiders can count on him being durable. There aren’t many teams that utilize fullbacks these days, so there aren’t a ton of fullback options. Heyward was one of the best options still on the market.