Cam Heyward Makes Case for Steelers to Re-Sign Joe Haden

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Players coming and going are a big part of the NFL, but the Pittsburgh Steelers are dealing with a potential trifecta of heart-and-soul type losses in the 2022 offseason, making the team’s first-round exit from the NFL postseason on Sunday all that more emotional.

One of those big potential departures is cornerback Joe Haden. Haden is set to be a free agent in March, and its unclear how much mutual interest there is between the the team and the 32-year-old veteran of its secondary.

Haden had said in the summer that he wanted to work out a deal with the team to stay in Pittsburgh, but was respectful of the team prioritizing a contract extension with T.J. Watt. When the season started with Haden entering his final season, and the Steelers not negotiating during the season, Haden’s agent said the corner will hit free agency.

At least one member of the Black and Gold hopes that doesn’t happen. Steelers defensive captain Cam Heyward made his case for the team to re-sign Haden on Sunday night.

“Joe is a guy, ever since he got here, I’ve just been appreciative of him,” Heyward said. “A lot of unknowns, but a guy like Joe Haden, he brings things to the team that people don’t even see. During the week of practice, getting guys up to speed, making sure collectively that we are good on the back end.

“I would love to have Joe back, but that’s not my decision.”

Haden was not made available to speak with the media after the game, but expressed his sentiments after potentially donning a Steelers uniform for the last time on social media.

Steelers Nation….. I love u Guys! The Love I have felt from day One here has been unbelievable and I can’t thank you guys enough! We will see what the future holds! #GoldsPlan #ImNotDoneBalling! pic.twitter.com/oOpqSSPoBQ

— Joe Haden (@joehaden23) January 17, 2022

“Steelers Nation, I love you guys!” Haden wrote on Twitter. “The love I have felt from day one here has been unbelievable and I can’t thank you guys enough! We will see what the future holds!”

The Steelers will have a number of difficult decisions to make this offseason, and the potential return or departure of their most veteran defensive back will be high on that list.