After chasing down Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s loss, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cam Heyward drew a personal foul call after he appeared to punch the second-year passer in the torso.
While Heyward could have a fine coming his way for the incident, he reportedly will not miss any games.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Heyward is not facing a suspension, but could be fined for his interaction with Herbert.
#Steelers DL Cam Heyward, who appeared to punch #Chargers QB Justin Herbert late in last night’s game, will have his actions reviewed for a fine, not suspension, source said. Heyward told reporters punching was not his intent and it looked worse than it was.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 22, 2021
Heyward explained the situation and apologized to Herbert after the game, but insisted their was nothing nefarious about his actions.
“To be honest, I was running after the ball, and I caught my hand under, so when I was trying to get back up, I couldn’t get up, and I fell back on him,” Heyward said postgame. “I know it looks terrible, (but) there was nothing malicious behind it. I don’t think I was trying to punch him, but I know it looks worse than it is in slow motion. I’m sorry if I did anything to offend anybody. I wish I had said more to Justin after, but there was nothing behind it.”
Heyward is in the midst of another All-Pro caliber season. The 32-year-old has 49 combined tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, seven passes defended, 4.5 sacks and an interception on the year.