JUST IN: Pittsburgh Steelers top Veteran Rejects new contract says he wants to leave

Pittsburgh Steelers defenseman lineman Cameron Heyward wants to spend his entire career with one team, but as he and the organization struggle to agree to a new contract extension beyond this season, he recognizes the possibility of potentially playing for another team.

Earlier this week, he suggested playing for a division rival. Specifically, the Cleveland Browns.

Heyward told Mark Kaboly of the Athletic that he has discussed the notion of playing elsewhere with his wife, who finds the concept appealing.

He went on to say that he still has family in Cleveland, and that his wife is from there. Heyward also played collegiate football at Ohio State, so he has a lot of Ohio connections.

Heyward is due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2024 season and is allegedly looking for a three-year deal with the Steelers. He has been a major leader for the Steelers and one of their finest defensive players for over a decade, but his age and recent injury history may make a long-term commitment risky.

Heyward fully intends to play in 2025, whether in Pittsburgh or somewhere. And his willingness to discuss playing for another team appears to be a significant power move designed to increase pressure on the Steelers’ management office.

To retain him in Pittsburgh, there will most likely have to be some significant movement before the season begins, as the Steelers are notorious for not negotiating new contracts during the season, and they do not appear willing to make an exception here.