Pittsburgh Steelers pick up 2015 option for defensive end Cam Heyward

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.