Cameron Heyward of the Pittsburgh Steelers has affirmed that he has no plans to retire, stating, “I have a genuine passion for playing football, and I am committed to continuing my career because I love the game.”

The veteran isn’t done just yet

Steelers DT Cam Heyward reportedly has surgery for groin injury, out 8 weeks

Pittsburgh Steelers’ standout defensive tackle, Cameron Heyward, has emphatically declared that retirement is not on the horizon for him. The 34-year-old veteran made this announcement on his podcast, “Not Just Football,” dispelling any speculations about stepping away from the game. This decision follows a challenging 2023 season for Heyward, marked by a groin injury that necessitated surgery, limiting his participation to 11 regular-season games and the Steelers’ lone playoff match – a 31-17 defeat against the Buffalo Bills.

Reflecting on the past season, Heyward revealed the extent of his determination, having played through the adversity of a significant injury. “I just played an entire season on one freakin’ leg where I could barely run for half the season,” he shared, underscoring his commitment to the team even in the face of physical challenges.

Since being selected as a first-round pick, Heyward has been an integral part of the Steelers’ defense for an impressive 13 years. His consistent contributions led to his full-time starter status in 2013, and he has earned Pro Bowl honors in each of the past six seasons. Additionally, Heyward boasts three All-Pro recognitions, and his impressive career sack tally of 80.5 places him in a tie for second in franchise history alongside former teammate James Harrison, with current teammate T.J. Watt leading the chart at 96.5 sacks.

Beyond his on-field prowess, Heyward’s impact extends off the field, solidifying his role as a key asset for the Steelers both in the game and in the community. Recognized for his philanthropic endeavors, Heyward has been nominated six times as the Steelers’ representative for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award. His commitment to community service is further highlighted by his involvement in various foundations and the establishment of his own, The Heyward House, in 2015.

Steelers DL Cameron Heyward undergoing groin surgery, expected to miss about eight weeks

In a revealing interview with CBS Sports, Heyward shed light on the inspiration behind founding his foundation, emphasizing his dedication to giving back to the community and supporting children at risk. His philanthropic efforts extend to assisting those affected by brain tumors, a cause close to his heart due to his father’s experience with the condition.

With the recent confirmation of Mike Tomlin’s return as the Steelers’ head coach for the 2024 season, Pittsburgh can take comfort in the continuity of key figures within the franchise. Heyward’s decision to continue playing adds to the positive outlook for the team and the city. In expressing his sentiments, Heyward succinctly stated, “I love playing football, I want to play football,” reaffirming his passion for the game and his commitment to contributing to the Steelers’ success on the field. As Heyward looks forward to the upcoming seasons, his dedication to both his team and community endeavors remains a testament to his enduring impact within and beyond the realm of football.