Cameron Heyward’s 2025 raise hinges on playoff success, not sacks. Incentives kick in for playoff appearances and playoff wins, shifting value from individual stats to team performance. Fantasy managers should note this moves Heyward’s upside from purely defensive metrics to Pittsburgh’s postseason trajectory.

Steelers avoided guaranteed money, preserving cap flexibility while Heyward’s extra $3 million stays contingent on a deep run. If motivators align with a strong playoff push, his impact could rise in must-win games; otherwise the structure introduces risk tied to team outcomes rather than personal production.