Steelers Sign Veteran Defensive Tackle Cam Heyward to Two-Year Extension

The new deal keeps the 37-year-old All-Pro in Pittsburgh through the 2027 season.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 12:08am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward to a new two-year contract extension. The deal is worth $32.25 million, with the first year fully guaranteed, making it the largest contract ever awarded to an NFL defensive player aged 36 or older. The extension keeps Heyward, a five-time Pro Bowler, in Pittsburgh through the 2027 season.

Why it matters

Heyward has been a cornerstone of the Steelers' defense for over a decade, making five Pro Bowls and helping the team reach the playoffs multiple times. Retaining him on a long-term deal is crucial for the Steelers as they look to keep their Super Bowl window open, potentially by bringing back veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The details

The new contract extension is a one-year deal on top of Heyward's existing contract, keeping him in Pittsburgh through the 2027 season. The total value of the contract is $32.25 million, with $16.25 million fully guaranteed in the first year. This makes it the largest contract ever awarded to an NFL defensive player aged 36 or older.

  • Heyward was entering the final year of his previous contract with the Steelers.
  • The new extension was signed on March 11, 2026.

The players

Cam Heyward

A 37-year-old defensive tackle who has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is a five-time Pro Bowler and has been a key part of the Steelers' defense for over a decade.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The professional American football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

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What they’re saying

“Cameron Heyward, set to turn 37 in May, has agreed to a new two-year deal with the Steelers worth $32.25 million, source confirms. The first year is guaranteed. The move keeps Heyward in Pittsburgh through the 2027 season and frees up about $5.5 M in cap space.”

— Mike DeFabo

“Full details for Cam Heyward: It's a 1-year extension, per The Insiders. $32.25M total value with $16.25M fully guaranteed. Total dollars and new money avg of $18M APY makes it the largest contract awarded to an NFL defensive player in NFL history 36 years or older.”

— Ian Rapoport

What’s next

The Steelers will now look to finalize a deal to bring in veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers as they aim to keep their Super Bowl window open with Heyward anchoring the defense.

The takeaway

By signing Cam Heyward to a lucrative two-year extension, the Steelers have secured the services of one of the best defensive players in franchise history. This move not only keeps their star tackle in Pittsburgh but also frees up valuable salary cap space, positioning the team to potentially make a run at another championship with the addition of a veteran quarterback like Aaron Rodgers.