For all that T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward have given the Pittsburgh Steelers over their Hall of Fame careers, they deserve better. Watt and Heyward have been the heart and soul of Pittsburgh’s defense for years, but it might be time to give these legends a chance to chase a Super Bowl elsewhere.
Watt, 30, and Heyward, 35, are entering the twilight of their respective careers, and the Steelers’ current roster doesn’t look like it’s built for a deep playoff run anytime soon.
Holding on to these players merely because they’re the best on the roster won’t do the team any good when everything surrounding them is subpar. Pittsburgh’s terrible coaching staff, inconsistent offense, and lack of postseason success make it hard to envision this team hoisting the Lombardi Trophy during however many years remain in their pro tenures.
Watt, a former Defensive Player of the Year, remains a dominant pass rusher despite battling injuries, while Heyward’s leadership and ability to disrupt opposing offenses make him a valuable asset. Both deserve to finish their careers on a team with a legitimate shot at winning a Super Bowl.
A trade would benefit Watt and Heyward and allow the Steelers to acquire valuable draft capital to rebuild their roster. Imagine Watt terrorizing quarterbacks on a championship-caliber team or Heyward anchoring a defense destined for glory. Steelers fans might not like it, but giving these stars a shot at a ring is the ultimate nod to their incredible contributions.
