NFL scouts, coaches believe Steelers defensive star is 'starting to decline'

A collection of scouts, coaches and league executives put together a list of their top 10 defensive linemen in 2023. One of the Steelers' stars took a fall, and some may be surprised by what the group had to say about him.

Pittsburgh's veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward ranks ninth on the list, dropping from last year's fifth-place ranking.

"We thought he was starting to decline last year, which is to be expected given his age," one scout stated.

Heyward turned 34 this offseason but is coming off back-to-back 10+ sack seasons where he didn't miss a game. His production did take a dip when LB T.J. Watt missed some time, but so did the rest of the defense.

The 12-year veteran's younger brother, Connor Heyward, who was drafted by the Steelers in 2022, said he believes [Cam] still has "three, four years left" following the 2022 season.

It's unlikely Heyward will stick around that much longer, but he certainly has incentive to continue playing. He is just 2.5 sacks away from breaking James Harrison's franchise sack record (80.5) and is surely still hoping to get a ring as well.

While some are critical of Heyward in the late stages of his career, others still believe he's one of the best at his position.

"An instinctive pass-rusher, has great strength — still one of the better power rushers," another scout said.

Either way, Heyward will be an important part of Pittsburgh's defense and could play a large role in the Steelers being a dark horse contender in 2023.