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After 16 Years, There’s One Job The Steelers Are No Longer Asking Cam Heyward To Do

By nature of playing defensive line in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 3-4 scheme, Cam Heyward has always had to partake in the dirty work. Take on blockers to free up others, battle fellow 300 pounders for 60 minutes. It’s not always…

By Alex Kozora · Steelers Depot

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 12:30 PM

Key Things to Know

The Pittsburgh Steelers have relieved veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward of his field goal protection duties after 16 seasons.
Heyward explained the change was made to preserve his body from the physical wear of blocking rushers.
Second-year defensive lineman Yahya Black has taken over Heyward's former position on the field goal unit.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially removed veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward from their field goal protection unit after 16 seasons in the role. Heyward confirmed the change on his Not Just Football podcast following Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. Second-year defensive lineman Yahya Black has stepped into Heyward's former blocking spot.

Heyward explained that the adjustment was made to help preserve his body, noting the intense physical toll of blocking rushers on kick attempts. He also voiced concerns regarding player safety on field goals, calling on the NFL to regulate how many defenders are permitted to aggressively target the tight end alignment.

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After 16 Years, There’s One Job The Steelers Are No Longer Asking Cam Heyward To Do

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