The Pittsburgh Steelers are making moves in the offseason with the goal of determining who will be their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. The ongoing negotiations with Aaron Rodgers have drawn the attention of defensive tackle Cam Heyward, who chose to share his thoughts on Justin Fields‘ departure to the New York Jets.
During the offseason, there has been speculation about the possibility of Russell Wilson or Fields, the two starting quarterbacks from last season, receiving a contract extension to return to the Steelers after becoming free agents. However, that hasn’t happened, and the former Chicago Bears player chose to continue his career with the Jets.
Heyward, who has already made his stance clear about the Steelers’ prolonged wait for a response from Rodgers, once again spoke out to share his feelings about Fields’ departure to New York.
Heyward’s admission about Fields’ departure
“First of all, Justin’s a class act. He’s a guy that works his tail off and wants to lead by example. I was kind of bummed it didn’t work out here. I thought we were going to have a chance to get him. But, I know that dude is going to dominate in New York. He’s going to give that team a good chance,” Heyward said in talk with The Rich Eisen Show.
What did Fields say about his departure from the Steelers?
Fields explained the reasons why he chose to play for the Jets next season. “I think, number one, coach Aaron Glenn. I’ve played against him early in my career. I know how passionate he is about the game. The way he coaches and the way his players play. So, I think that was the biggest thing for me and just the opportunity. The fans, of course, the city. When you win here, there’s no better place to win. Those reasons are ultimately why I ended up here,” he explained.
Heyward’s tough message to Rodgers
Heyward’s years in Pittsburgh back up his status as a credible voice. For that reason, he didn’t hesitate to make his opinion clear about the prolonged negotiations with Rodgers. “I ain’t doing that darkness retreat. I don’t need any of that crap. Either you want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler or you don’t. That’s simple, that’s the pitch. If you want me to recruit, that’s the recruiting pitch. Pittsburgh Steelers — if you want to be part of it, so be it. If you don’t, no skin off my back,” he said days ago.