The Pittsburgh Steelers can breathe a little easier heading into Week One.
Veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward, who had been holding firm on his demands for more money, finally reached an agreement with the team—and it could net him up to $3 million in additional payments.
Heyward Gets What He Asked For
At 36 years old, Heyward had made it clear he wasn’t stepping onto the field without a new financial package.
For weeks, the standoff hung in the air, leaving fans wondering if it would spill over into the new season.
On Saturday night, however, both sides shook hands on fresh terms.
The deal adds incentive-based bonuses tied to making the playoffs and advancing in the postseason.
Suiting Up for Sunday
The timing couldn’t be better. With the deal signed, Heyward will be on the field this Sunday at MetLife Stadium when the Steelers face the New York Jets.
His presence on the defensive line adds some serious weight to what’s already shaping up to be one of the most intriguing Week One matchups.
Rodgers Returns to New York
The game is also set to be a dramatic chapter in Aaron Rodgers’ career.
The 41-year-old quarterback, now wearing Steelers black and gold, will be playing at the very stadium where his tenure with the Jets unraveled over the last two seasons.
His release came after new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn opted to move forward with a younger QB—a decision Rodgers has been very vocal about disliking.
A Personal Grudge Match
For Rodgers, this isn’t just another season opener—it’s personal.
Sources close to him say he’s treating the clash against the Jets as his “Super Bowl.”
The veteran reportedly wants nothing short of a dominant blowout, ideally keeping the Jets scoreless and, in a dream scenario, winning by 60 points.
Steelers vs. Jets: What to Expect
With Heyward back in the lineup, Pittsburgh looks stronger and Rodgers has the chance to settle a score.
Still, the Jets remain a wildcard under new leadership, making Sunday’s showdown in New Jersey one of the most unpredictable—and must-watch—games of the week.