The Pro Football Writers of America have named Pittsburgh Steelers’ DL Cam Heyward the 2022 recipient of the “Good Guy’ Award, given to a player “for his qualities and professional style in helping pro football writers do their jobs.”
You can check out their full press release in the below tweet, along with a photo of Heyward accepting the award surrounded by local beat writers and Team President Art Rooney II.
In the press release, PFWA notes:
“Heyward did not miss a media availability during the 2021 season, and those on the beat locally in Pittsburgh said he never avoided a tough question as he offered open and honest discussions about everything from on-the-field issues to the impact of the retirement of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. He was cited for consistently going “above and beyond’’ to build an honest rapport with those who cover the team.”
Heyward has become one of the clear leaders on the Steelers’ team, and he’ll be counted on more than ever in 2022 following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. Heyward conducts as many interviews as almost any Steeler and was an important piece of their 2021 squad, attempting to rally a defense, specifically a defensive line, that battled injury and tragedy.
“I try to make sure I am honest, and I communicate well with you guys,” Heyward told Steelers.com’s Teresa Varley after winning the award. “I just try to be honest and have fun doing it. I have a blast doing it. You guys make it easy on me.
Heyward also won “The Chief” Award in 2021 for a third time, presented to the Steeler who has the best relationship with the media.
He is among the most active players in the community. He’s run The Heyward House for many years to help kids in the Pittsburgh community. Last week, he hosted “Cam’s Birthday Bash” at a local Dave & Buster’s, spending time with kids in need.
Heyward, 33, was drafted by the Steelers 31st overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. He’s among the best defensive linemen in the game and has made five straight Pro Bowls, with two All-Pro selections over that span.
He becomes just the second Steeler to win the award since its inception in 2005. The other was RB Jerome Bettis, who took home the award in that first year back in 2005 as part of his storybook season, winning a Super Bowl in his hometown of Detroit. Recent winners of the award include Philip Rivers, Eli Manning, and Chris Long. Long is the only two-time winner of the award, but Heyward has a real shot to join him.
