Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward has shared details of his rapid return from a severe groin injury suffered in 2023. He defied medical advice to play after just seven weeks but later regretted the decision.
Heyward tore his groin off the bone in Week 1 against San Francisco. Doctors initially told him recovery could take six to eight months.
Speaking on his Not Just Football podcast, Heyward said he returned in seven weeks and tore the other side. He described the season as rough and noted that he felt limited by the injury.
Heyward missed six games before returning in Week 9 against Tennessee. He finished the year with two sacks and 33 tackles.
The player later had surgery and rebounded with strong performances in 2024 and 2025, earning All-Pro honors both seasons.