Steelers, Cameron Heyward finalizing $75.1M extension

The Pittsburgh Steelers made sure that defensive tackle Cameron Heyward remains with the team for a long time. Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers, Cameron Heyward finalizing five-year, $75.1 million extension

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/7/20

With under a week to go before the regular season begins, the Pittsburgh Steelers have locked up one of their defensive cornerstones for a very long time.

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers have signed All-Pro defensive lineman Cameron Heyward to a five-year, $75.1 million extension. The contract is the highest per-year average for any defensive player over the age of 30 in NFL history.

Totals for Cam Heyward on his new deal.

*Five years, $75.1 million

*$65.6 million in new money (includes last year of current deal)

*Yearly average highest for defensive player over 30 in NFL history.

Huge deal for an All-Pro and leader of Steelers D.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 7, 2020

Heyward is entering his 10th season with Pittsburgh and is coming off a stellar 2019 campaign. The 31-year-old recorded nine sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, 51 solo tackles and 23 quarterback hits last season.

The three-time Pro Bowler was very vocal this offseason about wanting to remain with Pittsburgh, but contract discussions weren't always that easy. The coronavirus pandemic put a halt to negotiations for some time, which frustrated Heyward, and things still haven't returned to normal with the uncertainty about what the future holds.

Although things weren't easy to iron out, Heyward tweeted his excitement for his new deal on Sunday saying "Pittsburgh is where I belong!" The video he tweeted out not only features himself, but head coach Mike Tomlin and teammates Ben Roethlisberger, JuJu Smith-Schuster, James Conner, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Maurkice Pouncey and T.J. Watt.