Steelers' Connor Heyward signs 2-year deal with Raiders

Heyward found success as a short-yardage 'tush-push' quarterback in 2025 before joining Las Vegas

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:48am

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Connor Heyward, the brother of Cam Heyward, has signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. Heyward gained notoriety in 2025 as the Steelers' short-yardage 'tush-push' quarterback, converting 11 first downs with a pair of touchdowns. He played a career-low 90 snaps on offense in 2025 but has 28 career special teams tackles in 1,124 snaps.

Why it matters

Heyward's versatility as both a tight end and short-yardage quarterback made him an intriguing prospect for the Raiders, who are looking to bolster their offense. His ability to convert crucial first downs could be valuable for Las Vegas.

The details

Heyward's new contract with the Raiders is for two years and has a maximum value of $5.5 million, with $2 million in guaranteed money. He had three receptions for 21 yards in 2025, playing a career-low 90 snaps on offense. However, Heyward has proven to be a valuable special teams contributor, with 28 career tackles in 1,124 snaps on kick units.

  • Heyward gained notoriety as the Steelers' 'tush-push' quarterback in 2025.
  • Heyward signed his new two-year contract with the Raiders on March 13, 2026.

The players

Connor Heyward

A tight end who gained fame as the Steelers' short-yardage 'tush-push' quarterback in 2025, converting 11 first downs with a pair of touchdowns.

Cam Heyward

Connor Heyward's brother, who is a defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team that signed Connor Heyward to a two-year, $5.5 million contract in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Connor Heyward found a role as the short-yardage quarterback in 2025, now Cam's brother works it for a 2-year deal with the Raiders”

— Jeff Hathhorn, Author (audacy.com)

What’s next

Heyward will look to continue his success as a short-yardage specialist and special teams contributor with the Raiders, as he aims to carve out a larger role in the offense.

The takeaway

Heyward's versatility and ability to convert crucial first downs made him an attractive free agent target for the Raiders, who are looking to bolster their offense. His transition from the Steelers to the Raiders could provide him with more opportunities to showcase his unique skillset.