In the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Michigan State standout, Connor Heyward. The younger brother of standout defensive tackle Cameron Heyward, some people thought the Steelers were just doing him a solid by giving him a chance in the NFL. But, the Michigan State product has quickly dispelled any sense of nepotism.
During his time with the Spartans, Heyward was deployed as a jack of all trades. He started his career in the backfield, recording 207 carries in his first four collegiate seasons. Even as a running back, he displayed some impressive skills as a pass catcher.
So, in his final season with Michigan State, Heyward took over the tight end spot. He finished the season with 35 receptions for 326 yards and two touchdowns. His receptions were tied for third on the team, while he finished fourth in yardage and touchdowns.
In his rookie season with the Steelers, Heyward was listed as a tight end. He appeared in all 17 games, catching 12 passes for 151 yards and one touchdown. The backfield wasn’t left behind altogether as he still had two carries for 27 yards.
Heading into Year 2, Heyward’s role could grow exponentially. With Derek Watt no longer in the fold, the starting fullback job is up for grabs. Given the versatility that he possesses, that is a role Heyward would take over as he is drawing rave reviews from Steelers’ headquarters according to Brooke Pryor of ESPN.
“Entering his second season, the younger brother of Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is primed for an even bigger role. He made the most of playing 15% of offensive snaps last season, catching 12 of 17 targets and hauling in a touchdown. His chemistry with quarterback Kenny Pickett continued through the spring, and with Derek Watt’s departure, Heyward could fill the role as the team’s primary fullback and see time as an undersized yet strong tight end.”
There aren’t many teams in the NFL that still deploy a fullback, but Pittsburgh’s style of play still calls for one. It isn’t the most glamorous position but serves a major purpose in what the Steelers want to do offensively. Having a player with the skill set of Heyward will elevate the position as well.
Watt was certainly a throwback fullback, doing most of his work as a lead blocker with the occasional reception or rush mixed in. In his entire seven-year career, Watt had only 47 touches; 18 receptions on 21 targets and 29 carries.
Heyward nearly matched the reception numbers as a rookie despite his minuscule role in the offense. Expect offensive coordinator Matt Canada to take full advantage of what Heyward brings to the table beyond your regular fullback duties as a blocker.
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