PFF: Steelers DL Cam Heyward Highest-Graded Defender in NFL

By Cale Berger

·October 20, 2021

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sept. 21, 2021. -- Ed Thompson / Steelers Now

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cam Hayward. — Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sept. 21, 2021. -- Ed Thompson / Steelers Now

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cam Heyward has had a dominant start to the 2021 season, and Pro Football Focus’ grading backs it up.

According to PFF, Heyward is the highest-graded defensive player in the NFL at 92.3.

Heyward is even graded higher than Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who is universally regarded as the league’s best interior defender.

The highest-graded defenders this season 💪

(Presented by @WesternSouthern) pic.twitter.com/o5yCVMRMHg
— PFF (@PFF) October 19, 2021

Heyward has logged two sacks, five tackles-for-loss and five passes defended thus far this season.

The former Ohio State Buckeyes has earned two All-Pro nods and four Pro Bowl selections over his eleven-year career.