Cam Heyward calls the 2025 Steelers offseason workouts “a good start”

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for their 2025 Mandatory Minicamp this week, starting Tuesday, and it is the culminating event from all three phases of Organized Team Activities (OTAs). The team just wrapped up Phase III of OTAs which was the most football-like phase of the offseason workout process, and is a good lead-up to minicamp this week.

All in all, the workouts have been highly attended, and veteran captain Cam Heyward called them a good start for the 2025 team.

“I think it’s a good start,” said Heyward. “Guys are running around trying to get in good shape, crafting our technique. It’s great for young guys to learn how we practice, get around some of the other vets and grow that way.

“But it’s just a start.”

Does a player like Heyward need to attend these workouts? Absolutely not. A player who has been in the league as long as him does not need any extra repetitions, but as a leader Heyward sees value in getting around his teammates. Especially the younger players, none more than the pair of defensive linemen drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Derrick Harman (Round 1) and Yahya Black (5th Round).

“I just try to let them know about little things they can work on,” said Heyward. “I think it’s just trying to get consistent with the work. We understand it’s a new team and different things are going on. But they got good heads on their shoulders. They’re trying to listen, and that’s all you can ask for a young guy.”

Heyward still recalls what it was like when he was a rookie, but if you remember he was drafted 31st overall in the 2011 NFL Draft with the Steelers coming off a Super Bowl appearance.

“I was coming in off a team that just went to the Super Bowl, so we were already stacked at the position, and we had a first-rounder (Ziggy Hood) in waiting, so different situation. So, I don’t know what’s going to happen.

“I think the main thing we just preach right now is good competition and crafting every day. You’re going to have your opportunities.

“I feel like when I first got here, all Coach (John) Mitch(ell) told me was get ready for special teams because I’ve already got my starters. But it’s a different situation and it’s up for grabs right now. Each man has an opportunity, it’s just about who’s willing to seize that opportunity.”

Even for a seasoned veteran like Heyward, he still sees the importance of these workouts.

“I think it’s important,” said Heyward. “It’s not everything, but it’s a good start. I think in training camp, you get a lot more detailed in certain alignments or in fronts. We can really pre-set technique and you know when you’ve got the sun beating on you and you’re getting ready for a preseason game, then you’re getting challenged, but it’s a good start.”

The hope is there will be 100% attendance at Mandatory Minicamp this week, and all eyes will be on Aaron Rodgers making his first appearance in the black-and-gold. But, as Heyward stated, this is just the beginning of a very long process.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for minicamp this week.