Steelers’ Cam Heyward has a unique reason as to why he can play another five years in Pittsburgh
When Cam Heyward showed up to the final week of OTAs last week despite not receiving his desired contract extension, it proved what we already knew about the captain: He's a football lifer. And while many believe he's in the twilight of his career, Heyward says he has plenty left and is using a cross-sport […]
When Cam Heyward showed up to the final week of OTAs last week despite not receiving his desired contract extension, it proved what we already knew about the captain:
He's a football lifer.
And while many believe he's in the twilight of his career, Heyward says he has plenty left and is using a cross-sport analogy to prove why:
Heyward…the powerlifter?
"My game is different from everybody else in this league," Heyward told Dale Lolley of Steelers.com "I like to think I can play the run and the pass. And that's why I'm different. Last year Mike (Tomlin) brought to my attention, the thing that's really cool is you watch powerlifters, and my game is built on power and technique. And (powerlifters) go into their 40s. And so, you know, that's what kind of research I'm doing behind the scenes."
Heyward is currently 35 years old, so while it would be rich to suggest he can play another five years and get into his 40s as an interior defensive lineman, his point on strength is a valid one.
For one, even in a deprived state in terms of health, Heyward was still as forceful and strong as he had ever looked. Battling on one leg, his ability to win at the point of attack was a major factor for the Steelers' defense down the stretch. As long as that component of his game remains intact, he can play for as long as he wants.
On top of that, the research that Heyward is speaking to is more than valid. As a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, studies show that peak strength can often be delayed as long as mid-30s to early 40s for male athletes, the exact age range that Heyward is currently in.
Now unlike strength competitors, Heyward still has to move and be flexible and pliable to prevent injury. And injury is the only thing that could slow Heyward down regarding his goal of playing another two to three years.
But from a pure technical standpoint, there is evidence to suggest, both academically and in practice, that Heyward's statement can ring true. Perhaps he should bring some studies to the negotiation table as he aims to prove that betting on him into his late 30s would still yield a positive return on investment for Pittsburgh.
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