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The aging veterans just keep on keepin’ on
Let’s flashback to this past summer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as an important decision was looming. Thirteen-year veteran and anchor of the Steelers defensive line for the past decade, Cam Heyward, was set to be a free agent at the end of the 2024 season. He sat out the first two weeks of offseason OTA’s and continued to reiterate his desire to remain a Steeler for life.
Many pundits around the Steelers suggested they should not bring back the 35-year-old. Heyward was paying attention:
— Cam Heyward (@CamHeyward) September 3, 2024
Just a day after that tweet, Heyward and the Steelers agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $45 million, including $16 million guaranteed. How has that worked out for them so far, you asked?
Pro Football Focus just released their defensive-line rankings, and the Steelers are at the top of their list. Heyward once again is a significant reason why.
The black and gold are allowing just 81.1 rushing yard per game, good for second in the league.
On my timeline all offseason. “Heyward’s 35, he can’t stay healthy, don’t pay him, he’s washed.”
Tape against Atlanta says otherwise. 2nd-best DL of Week 1, per PFF. 97 still running strong. #Steelers pic.twitter.com/44494JvYLN
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) September 10, 2024
Obviously, the credit extends beyond Heyward, as DL Larry Ogunjobi could be having the best season of his career.
According to ESPN analytics, he is currently tied for first among all interior defensive linemen in run-stop win rate at 47%. He also has 10 total pressures on the season.
Keeanu Benton, the third piece of the puzzle, is also having a terrific season, and was ranked the highest-graded player on the team by PFF in the Steelers’ Week 7 win over the Jets.
What once was a bit of a question mark due to age and fragility, is now arguably the strength of a football team that hopes to improve to 6-2 against the New York Giants this coming Monday.