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Steelers Star Cam Heyward Says on Video Possible Week 1 Holdout Amid Contract Standoff

PITTSBURGH – Just days before the Steelers open their 2025 season against the New York Jets, one of the franchise’s cornerstones has cast doubt over his availability. Defensive captain Cam Heyward made it clear during a recent appearance on his Not Just Football podcast that he isn’t satisfied with his current contract and hasn’t ruled out sitting out Week 1. (Video Below)

“We’ll see,” Heyward said when asked directly if he’d be on the field for the opener.

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The veteran’s stance stems from months of negotiations that have failed to produce a resolution. Heyward’s camp first approached the team back in February, seeking adjustments to his deal after an All-Pro season in 2024. Pittsburgh has so far resisted, citing precedent against renegotiating non-quarterback contracts with more than one year left.

Still, Heyward has reason to push. After proving once again he’s among the league’s elite defenders, he believes his value isn’t properly reflected in his salary. “I can’t justify playing for my current pay after the season I just had,” he emphasized earlier this summer.

The uncertainty comes despite Heyward being voted a team captain once again — a role that typically signals stability and leadership. Last offseason, he briefly skipped OTAs but ultimately returned because of his duties to the locker room. This year, however, the tone feels different. ESPN insider Adam Schefter called the situation one to “keep a very close eye on” with kickoff less than a week away.

If Heyward does sit, the Steelers’ defensive line rotation will be tested immediately. Yahya Black, Keeanu Benton, and Isaiahh Loudermilk could be pressed into bigger roles against Aaron Rodgers and the Jets, while rookie Derrick Harmon continues his recovery.

For now, Steelers Nation waits. Whether this is a negotiation tactic or the start of a true standoff, one thing is certain: the possibility of Pittsburgh opening the season without its defensive leader has the entire NFL watching.

Eagles Legend Wants to Withdraw from Eagles Hall of Fame If Kevin Patullo Isn't Fired
Can you believe it? A living legend of the Philadelphia Eagles, LeSean McCoy, is "rebelling" and threatening to withdraw from the Eagles Hall of Fame – the place that honors his great contributions! The reason? All because of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo! What's happening with this legendary team? Read now for the hottest NFL "drama"! On his Speakeasy show, McCoy "dropped a bomb" with a shocking statement: “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street.” (Translation: "Remove me. No one has ever asked. I'm going to say 'Mr. Lurie, it's either me or Kevin'. If Kevin isn't fired, put number 25 back on the street.") Number 25 – McCoy's legendary jersey number – could be "kicked out" of the Hall of Fame if Patullo remains in position? This isn't a joke, but a direct challenge to team owner Jeffrey Lurie! This "extreme" demand stems from extreme disappointment with the disastrous performance of the Eagles' offense under Patullo. The team that once "soared high" is now "free-falling" with silly mistakes, and McCoy isn't the only one "furious." Even Josh Reynolds "cursed" Patullo: “Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed…” (Translation: "Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed...") Is Patullo the "culprit" causing the Eagles to "sink"? Look at the "tragedy" of quarterback Jalen Hurts: In the most recent Monday Night Football game, he threw three interceptions – one of which was blamed on AJ Brown! Comparing this year's offensive stats to last year? Worlds apart! The problem isn't just the weak offensive line, but also the play-caller – Patullo is "miserably compared" to Kellen Moore, who once elevated the offense to new heights. The article points out: The Eagles are repeating a "historical curse" – the offense always "collapses" after losing a good coordinator, like in previous Super Bowl runs. Nick Sirianni is heavily criticized for the decision to hire Patullo: "A fatal mistake"! 👀 Eagles legend LeSean McCoy says if #Eagles do not fire OC Kevin Patullo he wants out of Hall of Fame “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street”📸 @speakeasytlkshw pic.twitter.com/DcOkLiQejA — Jeff Skversky (@JeffSkversky) December 10, 2025 And the "darkest" data: In shotgun formation (51 plays), the Eagles only achieved 4.2 yards/play, 2.2 yards/rush, 5.2 yards/pass, with 4 "stupid" interceptions. But under center (15 plays)? Explosive with 10.2 yards/play, 8.8 yards/rush, 16.0 yards/pass, and 0 interceptions! Clearly, the offense performs "miraculously" better when balanced – so why is Patullo still "stubbornly persisting" with the outdated play style? Eagles fans are "boiling with rage": Will the team listen to McCoy and "deal with" Patullo to save the season? This drama is "exploding" on social media! McCoy – with his illustrious career at the Eagles – is he really withdrawing from the Hall of Fame? Or is this a "ploy" to push for change? Who will Jeffrey Lurie choose: The legend or the "culprit"? Don't miss out – follow now to see the "shocking" outcome of the Eagles' internal war! What do you think, comment below!