Long-time veteran defensive lineman Cameron Heyward is open to departure so this means a trade is imminent. According to multiple reports, the Ohio State product knows he will playing elsewhere in 2025 so this could trigger a trade this summer. Heyward is already seeking a new deal to stay with the team and wants to stay but is open to the idea that he won’t be around for long. The 35-year-old may just play out his entire 2024 campaign before he departs to be in a new uniform for 2025.
However, it would be logical for the Steelers to trade him to get something in return from a team. They still have a big need at receiver so they could use Heyward in a trade to intrigue a team to trade at least one of their receivers. No one should expect Heyward to take a hometown discount so there’s the possibility of an agreement not going through. The Steelers are already seeing a drop in his production either way after his last season was one of the worse in recent memory.
He had to get multiple surgeries but should be good to go as soon as this season starts. One would think that Heyward is smart for demanding a new deal knowing that he’s coming off an injury since he doesn’t want to get hurt again and not receive one. However, one strong season this year would help boost his stock no matter if he returns or not.
The three-time All-Pro is only seeking a two-year extension which would play out his full NFL tenure with the Steelers. However, if there’s an opportunity elsewhere then he would be open to leaving next offseason. Here are some potential trade fits if he exits early.
Long-Time Veteran Cameron Heyward Open to Departure, Trade Is Imminent
Potential Trade Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have one of the scariest defensive lines in the league with Chris Jones coming back on a long-term deal. Heyward should consider becoming a journeyman in his last two years of what he’s seeking in a contract. However, it would be logical for him to chase a Super Bowl before he retires. The Chiefs make the most sense for him since they’ve been able to win back-to-back rings.
However, it’s hard to imagine that the Steelers would trade their long-time veteran to an AFC rival. Heyward teaming up with guys like Mike Danna and George Karlaftis. One more veteran to make this defense a complete package wouldn’t hurt their chances for another ring.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints have been doing their homework in improving their defense by signing Chase Young on a one-year deal but it shouldn’t stop there. Defense wins championships and a clear example of that was when Von Miller decided to make the switch to Denver to win one almost a decade ago. Heyward may replicate that story to create his own with a growing NFC team. Having Young and Heyward on both opposite ends as veterans sounds like a Super Bowl-caliber defense.
Cameron Jordan may be the starter but they could just bring Heyward in a rotational defensive lineman.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys lost several key starters on their defensive line, including Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr. to free agency this offseason. They haven’t been able to restock on some reliable defenders other than bringing in Eric Kendricks to replace Leighton Vander-Esch. However, Heyward joining America’s team would be a perfect way to end his career for an ever-evolving core group that’s getting better each year. It’s guaranteed he’ll be back in playoff contention on his quest for a ring.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have lost several defensive pieces too including Geno Stone and Jadeveon Clowney. Heyward joining a solid group with Kyle Van Noy and Roquan Smith would probably compete as the best defense next to the Chiefs. Baltimore has a promising core with Justin Madubuike after having one of the best seasons so Heyward could be an excellent insurance policy.
