National Football League

Steelers pick up 5th-year option on DE Heyward

Published Apr. 22, 2014 5:21 p.m. ET

foxsports

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have picked up the 2015 option on defensive end Cam Heyward.

The decision, announced Tuesday, means Heyward will have to wait two more years before becoming a free agent. Heyward is coming off a breakout season in which he finished with a career-high five sacks while making 13 starts.

The 31st overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft is considered a cornerstone of Pittsburgh's 3-4 defense going forward. The team let Ziggy Hood walk in free agency and has not re-signed veteran Brett Keisel.