Las Vegas Raiders sign fullback Connor Heyward in free agency

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 28: Connor Heyward #83 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball during the second quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on December 28, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders have made another move in free agency, signing former Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Connor Heyward, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The contract is reportedly for two years and a max value of $5.5 million, with $2 million fully guaranteed.

New head coach Klint Kubiak is known for having a fullback in his offense, which was noticeably absent from the Raiders' roster until this news broke. Heyward has filled that role over the last four years for the Steelers. He also has a background at tight end, lining up in the backfield and in-line during his college days at Michigan State.

The former Spartan had 221 rushes for 825 yards and five rushing touchdowns, to go along with 96 catches, 711 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns over five seasons in East Lansing. In the NFL, he's accumulated 44 carries, 379 rushing yards, three touchdowns, 18 catches, 70 receiving yards and two receiving scores in four seasons and 17 games (three starts).

The Heywards have deep roots in the NFL. Connor's father, Craig Ironhead" Heyward, had an 11-year career from 1988 to 1998 as a fullback, while his brother, Cam Heyward, has been in the league since 2011 and recently signed a contract extension with the Steelers. The latter Heyward is a six-time All-Pro and seems destined for the Hall of Fame after he decides to hang'em up.