After adding players like Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, and DK Metcalf, the Pittsburgh Steelers had high expectations for the 2025 season. Unfortunately, Mike Tomlin’s team faltered back after a great 4–1 start to the season.
The Steelers now sit at a 6-5 record heading into their Week 13 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, and the Baltimore Ravens have leapfrogged them for first place in the AFC North.
With no guarantee of even reaching the playoffs, Pittsburgh could be headed for significant changes during the offseason, and its longest-tenured player could be playing his last game with the team.
Cameron Heyward has been a staple of the Steelers roster for over a decade. Despite still playing at a high level, Pittsburgh could consider moving in a different direction during the 2026 offseason – which no longer involves their 2011 first-round pick.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could say goodbye to Cameron Heyward after the 2025 season
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward is everything the Pittsburgh Steelers could have dreamed of. One of the longest-tenured players in team history built an excellent resume during his time in Pittsburgh and was a part of the Steelers’ top-ranked defense in 2019 and 2020.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Hayward will turn 37 in May. And if the Steelers are unable to win the playoffs nine years in a row, general manager Omar Khan may consider moving in a direction that doesn’t involve the four-time first-team All-Pro and longtime team captain.
During the 2026 offseason, Hayward will prepare for his 16th NFL season. While the Steelers have him under contract for another year — and it’s possible he plays out the final year of his deal or retires — this could be the end of the line in Pittsburgh.
Read more: The Steelers officially have a huge Mike Tomlin problem on their hands
According to Over the Cap, Hayward has a cap number of $19.15 million for the 2026 season. The veteran defensive tackle has a $12.95 million roster bonus that kicks in when the new league year begins, and the Steelers could save $14.25 million in cap space by cutting him after their 2025 campaign.
There’s no doubt that Hayward makes the Steelers’ roster better (even at an older age). However, according to Tankathon.com, the Steelers are on track to have 12 draft picks next April, and the front office could do some housecleaning. Hayward may suffer as the team continues to get younger—especially on the defensive side of the football.
Pittsburgh Steelers fans can be thankful for everything Cameron Heyward has provided to this team over the years. Sadly, the Steelers are not moving quickly and the 2026 offseason could bring significant changes.
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