Chris Boswell ends hold in with Steelers and plays preseason game against Buccaneers

Chris Boswell, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ veteran kicker, has ended his hold-in and returned to the field during the team’s preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

This move comes after weeks of speculation regarding his contract status. With 41 field goals made in 2024, leading the NFL, Boswell is starting his 11th season with the Steelers under contract until 2026. Boswell's contract, signed in 2022, puts him outside the top ten highest-paid kickers in the league, even if he had an amazing performance last season.

Chris Boswell ends hold-in and returns to Steelers preseason game amid contract talks

Chris Boswell started the game and also after a touchdown by teammate Brandon Johnson in the preseason game against the Buccaneers.

His presence on the field shows his preparedness for the coming season, even though he didn't try a field goal in this game.

Clearly indicating his desire for a contract correction, Chris Boswell's hold-in approach, where a player attends team events but abstains from games or practice, was a clear sign.His performance in 2024, converting 41 of 44 field goals and all 35 extra points, earned him his second Pro Bowl selection and first-team All-Pro honors.

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Cam Heyward holds in during training camp as veteran Steelers players seek new deals

One Steelers veteran, Chris Boswell, is negotiating his contract. Coming into his 15th season with the team, defensive lineman Cam Heyward has also taken part in a hold-in during training camp. Heyward feels underappreciated even after signing a three-year, $45 million extension in 2024, particularly following his All-Pro designation last year. Should his contract circumstances not be resolved, he has indicated he will miss regular-season games. The circumstances of both Boswell and Heyward show the difficulties seasoned players confront when their performance exceeds their remuneration. The Steelers will have to manage contract conflicts as they get closer to the regular season to make sure they keep their key players.