Cam Heyward is expected to play Week 1 against the New York Jets, keeping Pittsburgh’s interior defense anchored. Derrick Harmon is out, so Keeanu Benton and Yahya Black would shoulder heavier loads if Heyward sits. The visible pre-season drama around Heyward’s 2025 raise lingers, but Mike Tomlin’s stance signals confidence in the veteran. For fantasy managers, Heyward’s status directly shapes the DL rotation and potential upside for Benton and Black.

If Heyward suits up, Benton may see limited snaps while Heyward handles the heavy lifting, elevating the Jets’ interior challenge and stabilizing Pittsburgh’s run defense. If Heyward sits, Benton and Black become richer plays with expanded roles as the Jets test the middle and the Steelers lean on depth to contain interior runs and pressure the pocket.

Bottom line for fantasy: monitor Heyward’s health and status leading up to kickoff. His participation could cap Benton/Black upside, but an absence boosts both as moveable DL options with immediate upside in IDP formats and DFS contests.