The conversation surrounding the Steelers’ array of skill-position players leaves little room for mention of Connor Heyward. The versatile fullback/tight end could be featured more prominently in the team’s offense this season compared to 2022, however. 
The 24-year-old logged an offensive snap share of 15% as a rookie last year, a much lower usage rate than his 65% split on special teams. The same was true of traditional fullback Derek Watt, whose contract expired in March and has yet to find a new deal with Pittsburgh or another team. As a result, Heyward – the brother of Steelers All-Pro defensive tackle Cameron Heyward – could see an uptick in playing time.
The former sixth-rounder recorded 27 yards on two carries in his rookie campaign, adding 12 receptions for 151 yards and one touchdown. He has built off that production with a strong showing in the offseason, per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor. If that continues into training camp and the preseason, Heyward could find himself occupying a full-time fullback role, one the Steelers may elect not to keep moving forward. In that event, he would represent depth in the backfield for a team which could be contemplating a thin RB contingent.
Additionally, Heyward’s skillset could be put to use at the tight end spot. Pittsburgh already has Pat Freiermuth, Zach Gentry and third-round rookie Darnell Washington in place at that position, with the latter in particular being known for his blocking prowess. Heyward could still see himself used as a TE in certain packages though, especially if the team looks for new ways to get him on the field in light of the added chemistry shown between he and quarterback Kenny Pickett during the spring.
Expectations will be raised for the Steelers on offense heading into the 2023 campaign. Pickett being firmly entrenched as the starter, signficant investments made during free agency and the draft along the O-line as well as the addition of Allen Robinson to the team’s WR room should give the unit more upside. Part of its success, however, could be determined by the performance of Heyward while handling a larger workload.
pass catching fullback is rare.
prob lose a little in the run blocking , but think Heyward makes up for it with a few crucial plays with the ball in his hands
I got permission to put your mama in a headlock.
wow you’re definitely not a 12 year old kid
Buddy you are commenting on a football rumors website, you are also an immature adult.
take ur meds. or get off them. one or the other.
You got it Goku the knowledgeable.
The offense could have a sneaky good passing attack from a jumbo package. Diontae out wide with Freiermuth and Washington both on the field as TE’s and Heyward and Najee in the backfield gives them the opportunity to run and pass effectively at least in theory.
They’re going to be a power run offense for sure
will be great to see a steelers line move the pile (barring injuries)
it’s been so long since we’ve seen that