Bill Belichick Reflects on Missing the Chance to Draft Cameron Heyward

If the Pittsburgh Steelers had not submitted Ohio State defensive lineman Cameron Heyward’s name during the NFL Draft in 2011, the New England Patriots might have done so. In an episode of «Inside the NFL» aired on The CW on Wednesday, Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick revealed that Heyward was a significant consideration for their team at the time.

«Hey Cam, I think back to 2011,» Belichick remarked to Heyward. «Man, we almost had you. We had the first pick in the second round and you went 31, and we couldn’t trade up to get you.» Belichick smiled while making the comment, leaving the sincerity of his interest somewhat ambiguous. His reference to the inability to trade up suggests a genuine interest in acquiring Heyward.

Despite Belichick’s interest, there is no record of a pre-draft visit between Heyward and the Patriots, though the Tennessee Titans are noted as having shown interest. The Steelers capitalized on Heyward’s availability due to his slide in the draft, attributed in part to an elbow injury that limited his pre-draft engagements. Pittsburgh, prioritizing future needs over immediate ones, saw Heyward as a long-term asset in the face of aging team members like Aaron Smith and Brett Keisel.

Heyward’s career trajectory validated Pittsburgh’s decision, as he overcame early criticism of being a «bust» to become a standout player, cementing his status as one of the premier defensive linemen in franchise history. Now 35, Heyward remains a key figure for the Steelers.

Following Belichick’s comments, Heyward quipped, «You had a chance in the first round. You took Solder.» This referred to the Patriots’ decision to draft Colorado offensive tackle Nate Solder with the 17th overall pick. Solder enjoyed a successful career with New England, contributing to two Super Bowl victories, though his impact did not parallel Heyward’s.

The Patriots eventually selected cornerback Ras-I Dowling from Virginia with the 33rd pick. Dowling’s career was short-lived, totaling just nine game appearances for New England.

Reflecting on Heyward’s achievements with Pittsburgh, Belichick extended his congratulations. «Man, what a career you’ve had. Congratulations. You have had a tremendous career.» Heyward remains a Pittsburgh icon, cherishing his uninterrupted tenure with the team in his birthplace.