Pittsburgh Steelers defensive leader Cameron Heyward criticized the NFL's franchise tag, calling it "stupid" and unfair to players. His comments come as the team faces a potential tag for cornerback Joey Porter Jr. if a contract extension isn't reached before the season.

Heyward, an NFLPA executive committee member, argued the tag disadvantages players by limiting their freedom and pay. He noted that franchise-tagged players receive salaries based on the top five at their position, which can be significantly lower than market value.

For example, the 2026 cornerback tag is projected at $21.16 million, while Christian Gonzalez recently signed a deal averaging $33.75 million per year. Heyward emphasized that top performers deserve compensation matching their elite status.

Porter, who missed training camp with a back injury, is now practicing but hasn't committed to playing in the season opener against Atlanta. The Steelers list him as a co-starter with Asante Samuel Jr., leaving his status uncertain as negotiations continue.