Steelers DT Cameron Heyward wants to be a 'one-helmet guy' at the right value

Heyward was previously not in attendance as he is seeking a contract extension heading into the final year of his deal. The long-time team captain and 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year reiterated his desire for a new deal has not changed.

"Not at all," Heyward said.

Something else that hasn't changed is his want to finish his career in Pittsburgh.

"There are certain guys that are one-helmet guys. I wanna be one of those one-helmet guys," he stated. "There's a hunger and desire there, but that doesn't mean just hanging it up and calling it a career."

Heyward is coming off a down year in which he registered just 33 tackles and two sacks in 11 games, but he battled a lingering groin injury. Now healthy, the 35-year-old still believes he can play at an elite level.

"The value is what we decide, but I want to be valued at my position. I understand I came off [a] rough season, but I don't think it's a step down from where I can play," he added. "I think I'm at the top of my game. I'm still a top-five player at my position."

That could be why the two sides have not been able to reach an agreement. Heyward revealed that there have been conversations but that nothing is imminent.

"There's been communication but there's nothing really to report on right now," Heyward said. "I don't think a deal gets done tomorrow, I'll tell you that."

He plans to play three more years, ideally with the Steelers, but seems content with playing elsewhere if they don't value him as he values himself.

"I'm gonna try to remain pretty neutral," concluded Heyward. "All I know is I wanna be here, but we'll see what happens. If it's my last year here, I had a great career here."