Steelers revise Cameron Heyward's contract for 2025; seven-time Pro Bowl DL to play vs. Jets

Cameron Heyward is getting the raise he'd been looking for just ahead of the 2025 season opener.

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Heyward have agreed to terms on a revised contract for the 2025 season that will add $3.2 million in incentives tied to playoffs and playoff wins, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo reported Saturday.

Heyward, who can now earn close to $18 million this season, will start in Sunday's road game against the Jets after reworking his contract, per The Insiders.

A longstanding captain for Pittsburgh's defense, Heyward's presence is vital for the Steelers.

The 36-year-old is coming off his seventh Pro Bowl season, in which he collected 71 tackles (12 for loss), eight sacks, 20 QB hits and 11 pass break-ups in a campaign that saw the Steelers clinch a wild-card berth.

Heyward's contract impasse began as the Steelers broke training camp in early August. The 14-year veteran remained with the club but didn't participate in most team practices. His hold-in reached a crossroads this past Friday when he wasn't willing to make a firm commitment to playing in Sunday's season opener.

Any potential distraction of a Heyward absence is no longer following Saturday's contract resolution.

The Steelers are set to kick off in New York at 1 p.m. ET.