Heyward embraces leadership role for Steelers

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cam Heyward spent his childhood in NFL locker rooms watching father Craig, a fullback for five teams from 1988-98, handle victory and defeat with equal grace.

It molded Heyward’s approach to the game. His father made the playoffs just three times in 11 seasons but did his best to stay positive and honest.

Heyward is already assured of a second postseason appearance in four years heading into Sunday’s showdown with Cincinnati for the AFC North title. He has emerged as one of the young leaders of a defense in transition. It’s a role he’s still growing comfortable with, though his steady play on the field has left little doubt about his spot in the hierarchy.

After bouncing from one side of the defensive line to the other since the Steelers made him their first-round pick in 2011, Heyward appears to have settled in at left defensive end. He leads the Steelers (10-5) with 6.5 sacks to go with 20 quarterback pressures, three pass breakups and 32 solo tackles.

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