Cam Heyward Reveals Shortcoming on Steelers Defense

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Timm Hamm | Last updated Jan 31, 2025 1:10 PM ET

While the Pittsburgh Steelers had their share of problems in 2024, most of the eyes were on the offense and under center. But defensive tackle Cam Heyward thinks he can pinpoint a huge deficiency on the defense too.

During a recent appearance on NFL Radio on SiriusXM this week, Heyward confirmed the offensive issues in Pittsburgh but also pinpointed some issues on defense that he thinks are easily fixed.

“I think every year we’re striving to win a Super Bowl, and when we fall up short we all have to own it,” Heyward said. “And we all have to be better because of it. I don’t think we had enough cohesion on defense to be sound. That starts with players executing at a higher rate. I think we have the guys in the room, but, going forward, we have to clean up a lot of things.”

Pittsburgh finished 12th in the league defensively allowing 326.7 yards per game this season, 25th in passing defense with 228 yards per game, and sixth in rushing defense with 98.7 yards per game.

While the rushing defense was a strong point, it didn't finish the season well.

The Steelers allowed 299 rushing yards to the Ravens in the Wild Card Round, a 28-14 loss. That's after allowing 220 rushing yards to Baltimore in Week 16's loss and 124 in Week 11's win against the Ravens.

If Heyward is right, and it's something that's easily fixed, then the Steelers should have no problem competing once again for a North title and more in 2025.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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