Steelers Facing Contract Decisions
The Steelers have some important decisions to make.
After securing a record-breaking deal with TJ Watt, Pittsburgh is now focusing on another All-Pro defensive player, Cameron Hayward, who is looking for a restructured contract.
In a rapidly changing defensive market, Hayward is reportedly aiming for a salary increase that aligns with recent contracts, especially considering Watt’s impressive $123 million deal. However, he hasn’t fully participated in training camp while negotiations are ongoing, as noted by ESPN.
At 36, Hayward has two years remaining on his current contract, which will pay him $14.75 million this season and $14.5 million next season. He signed a three-year extension just last September.
Currently, he ranks as the 36th highest-paid defensive lineman and the 18th highest-paid defensive tackle under his existing deal.
Even approaching his 40s, Hayward remains one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. He demonstrated this by earning a first-team All-Pro selection this season.
Last season, Hayward recorded 71 tackles and eight sacks, making him the first defensive lineman over 35 years old to receive an All-Pro honor since Bruce Smith in 1998.
Hayward and his representatives, who have been with the Steelers for 15 seasons, have expressed their hopes directly. Still, their participation in training camp has been limited, and talks about a new deal haven’t progressed.
This offseason, the Steelers have made significant investments, including Watt’s three-year contract, the largest for a non-quarterback in NFL history. They also committed $132 million over four years to newly acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf.
On top of that, they are compensating rookies like Aaron Rodgers ($13 million), Jalen Ramsey ($26.6 million), and Jonnu Smith ($12 million).
It’s not just Hayward who is looking for a raise; kicker Chris Boswell is also pursuing a new contract.
Boswell was named a first-team All-Pro last season but is currently the lowest-paid kicker in the AFC North.
