Steelers GM Omar Khan Discusses Key Offseason Topics

Khan talks Cam Heyward's future, Broderick Jones' injury, Pat Freiermuth's usage, and free agent plans

Feb. 24, 2026 at 9:20pm

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In a recent media session, Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Omar Khan addressed several key offseason topics for the team, including the futures of veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward and tight end Pat Freiermuth, the injury status of 2022 first-round pick Broderick Jones, and the team's approach to pending free agents.

Why it matters

As the Steelers look to build on a promising 2025 season and return to the playoffs, Khan's comments provide insight into the team's offseason priorities and plans, which will be crucial in shaping the roster for the 2026 campaign.

The details

On Broderick Jones, Khan said the team is "monitoring the medical part of it" as the young tackle recovers from a neck injury that limited him to 11 games as a rookie. Regarding Cam Heyward, Khan acknowledged the "emotions" around the veteran's contract dispute last year, but said he expects to have further discussions with the 36-year-old defensive lineman soon. Khan also addressed Pat Freiermuth's usage, noting the tight end's desire for more targets while expressing excitement about his future role in the offense. Finally, Khan discussed the team's approach to several key pending free agents, including running back Kenneth Gainwell, guard Isaac Seumalo, and others, indicating that deals may not get done until closer to the start of free agency.

  • In 2025, Broderick Jones was limited to 11 games due to a neck injury.
  • After the 2025 season, Khan met with veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward to discuss his future.
  • In 2025, tight end Pat Freiermuth signed a 4-year, $48.4 million contract extension, but saw his production dip to 41 catches for 486 yards and 4 touchdowns.
  • Several Steelers starters from the 2025 season, including running back Kenneth Gainwell, guard Isaac Seumalo, and cornerback James Pierre, are set to become free agents on March 11, 2026.

The players

Broderick Jones

A 2022 first-round draft pick by the Steelers, Jones was expected to be the team's left tackle of the future before a neck injury limited him to 11 games as a rookie.

Cam Heyward

A veteran defensive lineman who has played at a high level for the Steelers, Heyward had a contract dispute with the team last year but is heading into the final year of his current deal.

Pat Freiermuth

The Steelers' starting tight end, Freiermuth signed a 4-year, $48.4 million extension in 2025 but saw his production dip that season, something Khan acknowledged bothered the competitive player.

Kenneth Gainwell

The Steelers' team MVP and starting running back in 2025, Gainwell is set to become a free agent in March 2026.

Isaac Seumalo

The Steelers' starting guard in 2025, Seumalo is also set to hit free agency in March 2026.

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What they’re saying

“We're monitoring the medical part of it [Broderick Jones' injury].”

— Omar Khan, Steelers General Manager (audacy.com)

“Cam is still playing at a high level. I mean, you guys saw it. I met with Cam after the season. We had some good conversations. Obviously, there were a lot of emotions with what had happened with Coach T [Mike Tomlin]. We just agreed that we would talk in a few weeks. So, I would expect us to talk here soon.”

— Omar Khan, Steelers General Manager (audacy.com)

“He's a competitor, so he wants the ball. You know, never going to question that, but I think he's going to have a big part in his offense. So, [I'm] excited about what's to come with Pat. He's a great player to have around, and we paid him for a reason.”

— Omar Khan, Steelers General Manager (audacy.com)

What’s next

The Steelers will need to decide whether to pick up the fifth-year option on Broderick Jones' rookie contract in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

As the Steelers look to build on their 2025 season and return to the playoffs, GM Omar Khan's comments highlight the team's focus on retaining key veterans like Cam Heyward and Pat Freiermuth, while also monitoring the health and development of young players like Broderick Jones. The team's approach to pending free agents will also be crucial in shaping the 2026 roster.