From Michigan State fullback to NFL veteran: the evolution of Connor Heyward
In short: Born into an NFL dynasty, Connor Heyward has spent his career redefining his role on the field. From his early days as a running back at Michigan State to his recent versatility in the NFL, his journey is a testament to professional adaptation and the pursuit of a unique identity.
Connor Heyward's professional trajectory is defined by positional fluidity. Born on January 22, 1999, in Duluth, Georgia, he grew up in a household steeped in football excellence. The son of Pro Bowl athlete Craig Heyward, he is the younger sibling of All-Pro defensive tackle Cameron Heyward. This lineage provided a high-stakes backdrop for his development at Peachtree Ridge High School and subsequently at Michigan State University. His upbringing in Duluth, Georgia, shaped his early athletic foundation. He attended Peachtree Ridge High School during his formative years.
His collegiate career at Michigan State, spanning from 2017 to 2021, saw significant tactical shifts. He began as a running back, recording his first collegiate touchdown against Rutgers on November 25, 2017. After losing his starting role in 2019 to Elijah Collins, Heyward navigated the NCAA transfer portal before returning to redshirt. By his final season in 2021, he had transitioned from running back to H-back, recording 35 receptions for 326 yards and two touchdowns. During his sophomore year in 2018, he amassed 529 rushing yards. He also contributed significantly to the Spartans' 2020 campaign.
Heyward entered the NFL via the 2022 draft, selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the sixth round as the 208th overall pick. His professional tenure has been marked by increasing complexity; by the 2025 season, he had become a hybrid fullback and tight end, even appearing as a wildcat quarterback on designed run plays. Following his time in Pittsburgh, he signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders on March 13, 2026, which included $2 million in guaranteed money. He achieved his initial professional touchdown during a Week 13 game against the Atlanta Falcons. His versatility was further showcased through multiple tush push plays.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Connor Heyward
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