Steelers star to skip OTAs amid contract dispute

Aug 19, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; A Pittsburgh Steelers helmet sits on the sidelines against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

One Pittsburgh Steelers star is not planning to attend the team’s offseason activities program amid contract issues with the team.

Cam Heyward has not participated in voluntary offseason workouts for the Steelers this year. He’s not planning to attend the team’s OTAs either, according to a report from ESPN published on Wednesday.

Heyward is set to make $22.4 million in 2024, which is the final year of the 4-year, $65.6 million deal he signed in 2020. He is seeking a contract extension from the team.

The 35-year-old defensive lineman made six straight Pro Bowls from 2017-2022. But he only played in 11 games last season after missing time due to a groin injury.

Heyward had 33 tackles and 2 sacks last season. He has racked up 80.5 sacks during his 13-season career.