Connor Heyward: Stats | Highlights | 40 Time | Raiders Sign | Brother

Introduction

In recent years, versatility has become one of the most valuable traits in the NFL. Players who can line up at multiple positions and contribute on offense, special teams, and blocking schemes are highly prized by coaches. One such player is Connor Heyward, a dynamic fullback and tight end who has carved out a unique role in professional football.

Heyward first gained attention as a versatile weapon during his college career at Michigan State Spartans. After being selected in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he developed into a valuable hybrid player who could catch passes, carry the ball, and contribute on special teams.

In 2026, his career took a new turn when the Las Vegas Raiders signed him in free agency, giving him an opportunity to expand his role in a new offensive system. Connor Heyward also comes from a famous football family, as he is the younger brother of All-Pro defensive lineman Cam Heyward.

This article explores Connor Heyward’s stats, highlights, 40-yard dash time, Raiders signing, and family background.

Connor Heyward Early Life and Background

Connor Heyward was born on January 22, 1999, in Duluth, Georgia. Football runs deep in his family, and he grew up surrounded by the sport.

His father, Craig Heyward—nicknamed “Ironhead”—played 11 seasons in the NFL as a powerful fullback from 1988 to 1998. This legacy heavily influenced Connor and his older brother.

His brother, Cam Heyward, became one of the NFL’s most respected defensive linemen and a multiple-time All-Pro with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Growing up in such an environment meant that Connor was exposed to professional football from an early age. The lessons he learned from his father and brother helped shape his work ethic and understanding of the game.

Heyward attended Peachtree Ridge High School in Georgia, where he excelled as a football player. His ability to play multiple positions made him an intriguing prospect heading into college.

College Career at Michigan State

Connor Heyward committed to play for the Michigan State Spartans in 2017. During his time in East Lansing, he played several roles including running back, H-back, and tight end.

This positional flexibility would later become one of his biggest strengths in the NFL.

College Stats

Across five seasons at Michigan State, Heyward produced solid offensive numbers:

• 221 rushing attempts

• 825 rushing yards

• 5 rushing touchdowns

• 96 receptions

• 711 receiving yards

• 6 receiving touchdowns

Although he was not always the primary offensive weapon, his versatility made him an important part of the Spartans’ offensive scheme.

Coaches valued his ability to block, catch passes out of the backfield, and create mismatches against defenders.

Connor Heyward NFL Draft and 40 Time

Connor Heyward entered the 2022 NFL Draft as a versatile offensive weapon who could play several roles.

At pre-draft workouts, his 40-yard dash time was approximately 4.72 seconds, a respectable time for a fullback-tight end hybrid player.

While he wasn’t considered an elite speed athlete, teams were impressed by his:

• Strength and physicality

• Reliable hands as a receiver

• Blocking ability

• Special teams potential

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected him in the 6th round (208th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Interestingly, this meant he would be joining the same franchise where his brother, Cam Heyward, was already a star defensive player.

Connor Heyward Stats in the NFL

Since entering the NFL in 2022, Connor Heyward has built a reputation as a dependable role player who can contribute in multiple phases of the game.

Career Stats

Through his first four seasons in the NFL, Heyward recorded:

• 44 receptions

• 379 receiving yards

• 3 receiving touchdowns

• 18 rushing attempts

• 70 rushing yards

• 2 rushing touchdowns

While those numbers may not seem huge, they reflect his role as a versatile utility player rather than a primary offensive weapon.

He also contributed significantly on special teams and in blocking schemes.

2025 Season Snapshot

In the 2025 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Heyward posted:

• 3 receptions

• 21 receiving yards

• 1 touchdown

He also added rushing attempts in short-yardage situations.

Connor Heyward Highlights

Despite playing a supporting role, Connor Heyward has produced several memorable moments during his career.

Versatile Offensive Weapon

One of his biggest strengths is his ability to line up at multiple positions, including:

• Fullback

• Tight end

• Running back

• Special teams contributor

This versatility allows offensive coordinators to design creative plays.

Reliable Hands

Heyward has shown the ability to catch passes in traffic, especially on short and intermediate routes.

His best statistical season came in 2023 when he recorded 23 receptions for 167 yards.

Short-Yardage Plays

Because of his powerful build and blocking skills, he has often been used in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

These plays highlight his physical running style and football intelligence.

Raiders Sign Connor Heyward

In 2026, Connor Heyward entered free agency and signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Reports indicate the contract is a two-year deal worth up to $5.5 million with $2 million guaranteed.

This move is significant for several reasons.

Fit in the Raiders Offense

The Raiders’ coaching staff values the traditional fullback role, which had been missing from the team’s offensive lineup.

Heyward’s skill set fits perfectly with this philosophy because he can:

• Lead block in running plays

• Catch short passes

• Line up as a tight end

• Contribute on special teams

Opportunity for a Bigger Role

With the Las Vegas Raiders, Heyward may see increased playing time compared to his role with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The move could allow him to expand his impact on offense.

Connor Heyward and His Brother Cam Heyward

One of the most interesting aspects of Connor Heyward’s career is his connection to his famous brother.

Cam Heyward has been one of the NFL’s best defensive linemen for over a decade and is widely considered a potential future Hall of Famer.

For several seasons, the brothers played on the same team with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

This created a unique storyline in the NFL.

Playing Together in Pittsburgh

When Connor joined the Steelers in 2022, it marked the first time the Heyward brothers shared the same locker room at the professional level.

Their bond became a fan favorite storyline in Pittsburgh.

Continuing the Family Legacy

The Heyward family has produced multiple NFL players:

• Craig Heyward – former Pro Bowl fullback

• Cam Heyward – All-Pro defensive lineman

• Connor Heyward – versatile fullback/tight end

This football lineage is one of the most respected family legacies in the NFL.

Playing Style and Strengths

Connor Heyward’s playing style is defined by versatility and toughness.

Key Strengths

1. Versatility – Can play multiple offensive positions

2. Blocking ability – Effective lead blocker in running plays

3. Reliable hands – Consistent short-range receiving option

4. Football IQ – Understands offensive schemes well

5. Special teams impact

These qualities make him valuable even when he is not producing big statistical numbers.

Future Outlook for Connor Heyward

With his move to the Las Vegas Raiders, Connor Heyward has an opportunity to redefine his career.

If he can earn a larger role in the Raiders offense, he could:

• Increase his offensive production

• Become a key part of the running game

• Serve as a reliable safety valve in the passing game

His versatility and experience should help him remain a useful piece in the NFL for several years.

Conclusion

Connor Heyward may not be one of the NFL’s biggest stars, but his versatility and football intelligence make him a valuable asset for any team.

From his college career with the Michigan State Spartans to his early NFL seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Heyward has consistently proven he can contribute in multiple ways.

Now, with the Las Vegas Raiders, he has a chance to expand his role and build a new chapter in his career.

As the younger brother of Cam Heyward and the son of Craig Heyward, Connor continues a proud football legacy while forging his own path in the NFL.

FAQs

Who is Connor Heyward?

Connor Heyward is an NFL fullback and tight end who currently plays for the Las Vegas Raiders. He previously played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

What are Connor Heyward’s career stats?

He has recorded 44 receptions for 379 yards, 3 receiving touchdowns, 70 rushing yards, and 2 rushing touchdowns in his NFL career.

What is Connor Heyward’s 40-yard dash time?

Connor Heyward ran the 40-yard dash in about 4.72 seconds during the pre-draft process.

Did the Raiders sign Connor Heyward?

Yes. In 2026, the Las Vegas Raiders signed him to a two-year contract worth up to $5.5 million.

Is Connor Heyward related to Cam Heyward?

Yes. Connor Heyward is the younger brother of Cam Heyward, a star defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers.