Steelers DE Cam Heyward throws support behind T.J. Watt

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers DE Cam Heyward: We all feel like T.J. Watt should be paid

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/9/21

Add Cam Heyward to the list of Pittsburgh Steelers players speaking out on behalf of T.J. Watt, who is eligible for a contract extension.

Heyward told reporters Thursday many players on the team feel Watt "should be paid" because he's a "game-changer" and doesn't miss games.

"I just think this guy has been a contributor for us for a long time and where he got drafted, we were very lucky," Heyward said. "We all knew he was going to be a player here, and he's answered the call and done more."

Cam Heyward: “We all feel like TJ should be paid. … he’s a game-changer. My conversations to him are, he should be paid.” pic.twitter.com/NH4wtNiJi0
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 9, 2021

Watt fully participated in team drills on Wednesday after previously holding out in pursuit of a new deal. The 26-year-old's status for Week 1 is unknown, with ESPN's Jeremy Fowler suggesting earlier this week Watt could sit out if a contract extension is not finalized.

The star outside linebacker has reiterated his desire to remain with the Steelers throughout training camp this summer, saying, "Obviously, I would love to be here [long term]."

Watt had the best season of his career in 2020, recording 15 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles, 53 tackles, 23 tackles for a loss and 41 quarterback hits.

The three-time Pro Bowler is in the final year of his rookie contract and is owed $10.1 million for the 2021 season. He's looking to become one of the highest-paid outside linebackers in the NFL, joining Khalil Mack ($23.5 million AAV) and Fred Warner ($19.045 million AAV).

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