Mike Tomlin shuts down Arthur Smith's bold plan to use Cam Heyward on offense
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin reportedly shut down an innovative offensive idea from
Arthur Smith
before it could take shape. Smith, the team's new offensive coordinator, proposed using veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward in short-yardage offensive packages during the 2025 season.
But Tomlin wasted no time rejecting the suggestion, according to Heyward himself. The surprising behind-the-scenes detail was revealed on the latest episode of Heyward's own podcast, "Not Just Football."
Cam Heyward's hilarious revelation gives fans rare behind-the-scenes glimpse
In a lighthearted but revealing segment of his show, Heyward detailed the exchange between Smith and Tomlin. 'Arthur Smith was around me and was like, 'Hey, we need to sneak you in on offense,'' Heyward said. 'And Mike was like, 'We ain't doing that.
That's not happening.' He really did.' The defensive captain laughed as he shared the story, but it also hinted at Tomlin's tight grip over team decisions—even creative ones.
The podcast, which often offers fans a rare inside look at locker room dynamics, has become a platform where Heyward shares team anecdotes and
NFL
insights. In this episode, the playful tone underscored a serious truth: even bold ideas from respected coordinators like Smith don't make it past Tomlin's approval unless they align with his disciplined approach.
The quick veto emphasizes the head coach's firm belief in structure, tradition, and defined roles.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan Breaks Down Controversial SuperBowl XL | Not Just Football
Arthur Smith, who previously served as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, is known for imaginative play designs and unpredictability in tight formations. His idea to use Heyward in goal-line sets wasn't far-fetched—other teams have done it with success. But in Pittsburgh, where the culture values identity and order, even entertaining the idea was short-lived.
Tomlin's leadership style clearly leaves little room for experiments that stray too far from the norm.
Steelers stick to their core: discipline over gimmicks
Cam Heyward, a six-time Pro Bowler and respected leader in the Steelers locker room, didn't take offense—but fans may be left wondering what could have been. In an era where NFL offenses are becoming more flexible and flashy, Pittsburgh appears firm on staying within its identity. Tomlin's rejection reflects a bigger truth: the Steelers value consistency more than novelty.
Also read:
NFL Camp on Hold: Browns rookie Quinshon Judkins lands in jail over domestic violence charge
As the Steelers gear up for the 2025 NFL season, one thing is certain—any creative spark will need to pass through Mike Tomlin's filter. And if it doesn't fit the culture, it's out before it even hits the whiteboard.
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