Still Dominating: Cameron Heyward Enters 2025 Ranked 6th-Best Veteran in the NFL
At 35 years old, most NFL players are riding off into the sunset. But Cameron Heyward? He’s still wrecking offensive lines — and only getting better.
Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive cornerstone has been ranked the 6th-best veteran player in the league, and the numbers back it up. In 2024, Heyward recorded a career-high pass-rush grade, proving that even in the twilight of his career, he’s not just maintaining — he’s evolving.
🧱 The Definition of Consistency
Heyward’s reputation as one of the NFL’s most technically sound and physically dominant defensive linemen didn’t happen overnight. A five-time All-Pro, he’s been the soul of the Steelers’ defense for over a decade, racking up sacks, stuffing the run, and mentoring the next generation.
What’s most impressive is that Heyward is still improving. His 2024 tape shows a player who’s not lost a step — rather, he’s refined his game to become even more efficient. He combines elite hand placement, impeccable leverage, and an unrelenting motor that overwhelms younger, less experienced linemen.
“There’s no slowing Cam down,” said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. “He prepares like a rookie and leads like a Hall of Famer. He’s the ultimate Steeler.”
📈 Still Elite at 35
Despite being one of the league’s oldest defensive linemen, Heyward posted some of the best pass-rushing metrics of his entire career in 2024. His pressure rate, win percentage, and impact on double-teams were all among the top at his position. Simply put: age is just a number when you’re built like Heyward.
🗣️ A Leader On and Off the Field
While his dominance between the lines is well documented, Heyward’s impact extends far beyond football. He’s been a pillar in the Pittsburgh community through his Heyward House Foundation, providing support to children and families in need.
Teammates consistently praise him for his mentorship, professionalism, and unwavering presence in the locker room.
“He’s not just a player — he’s the standard,” said T.J. Watt. “We all look up to Cam.”
🏆 Legacy Still in Progress
Already a member of the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team and a future Hall of Fame candidate, Heyward isn’t done yet. As the Steelers continue to build a new era of contenders, Heyward remains at the center of their identity — tough, relentless, and respected.
With 2025 underway, don’t expect a farewell tour. Expect more dominance.