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Even PFF realizes that Steelers' Cam Heyward continues to defy logic in their latest rankings of the NFL's best defensive linemen

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Rob Gregson | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 5:06 PM ET

Typically, NFL defensive linemen who are in their mid-30s are viewed as over the hill.

Cam Heyward has been anything but typical during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last year, his age 35 season proved as much, as Heyward finshed with Pro Bowl and first team All-Pro honors.

PFF rightfully recognized that in their top 32 interior defensive line rankings...

Cam Heyward ranked third by PFF in IDL rankings

Even at 35 years old, Heyward was stellar in 2024. His 90.1 single-season PFF overall grade ranked second only to Chris Jones. His 85.9 PFF pass-rush grade was the best mark of his career, too.

Trevor Sikkema, PFF

PFF has been a thorn in the side of the Steelers fanbase for a while, and perhaps even Cam Heyward, who has been vocal on the pressure vs. sacks debate, one that PFF coined in their favor of Myles Garrett over T.J. Watt in previous years.

But regardless of their stance on Watt or Mason Rudolph, Heyward's season shows how invaluable he was. It shows that despite coming off a down season in 2023 where he missed nearly half the year with injury and self-admittedly played on one leg, his new contract is actually undervalued.

It showed that he wasn't kidding when he said he just wanted to be paid among the top of the league at his position because he still felt that he could be one of, if not the best.

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And that was exactly what he was. Not only did Heyward record eight sacks from his interior alignment, he also recorded 11, yes ELEVEN pass breakups. That's an elite year for a shutdown corner.

It just goes to show how well-rounded and savvy Heyward is, with knowledge that if he can't push the pocket, he will be sure to bat the ball down before it gets where it needs to, often forcing turnovers for the Steelers' defense.

Many were upset when the #Steelers parted ways with Diontae Johnson in return for Donte Jackson.

That’s his 5th INT of the year, which sets a career high for him.

Cam Heyward continues a dominant performance with the tip here

pic.twitter.com/V7MEXohY92
— Rob Gregson (@NFL_Rob) December 1, 2024

And the best part? Barring an unfortunate injury, Heyward should have plenty of gas left in the tank. His game is built on power, not speed. Brawn and Brillance, two things which shouldn't be leaving his repertoire anytime soon.