Darrius Heyward-Bey entered the NFL spotlight as a wide receiver known for his exceptional speed and athleticism. Born on February 26, 1987, in Silver Spring, Maryland, he honed his skills at the University of Maryland, where he played college football for the Maryland Terrapins. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, who picked him seventh overall.
Heyward-Bey's tenure with the Raiders began with high expectations due to his draft position. His rookie season saw him starting in 11 games, though he faced challenges in adapting to the professional level, finishing the year with 9 receptions for 124 yards and one touchdown. Over the next few seasons, he worked to improve his game, and by 2011, he had his best season with the Raiders, recording 64 receptions for 975 yards and four touchdowns. This performance highlighted his potential as a deep threat, utilizing his speed to stretch defenses.
In 2013, Heyward-Bey signed with the Indianapolis Colts, where he played for one season. During his time with the Colts, he appeared in 16 games, starting in 11, and contributed with 29 receptions for 309 yards and one touchdown. His role in Indianapolis was more limited compared to his time with the Raiders, as he was part of a receiving corps that included Reggie Wayne and T.Y. Hilton.
The next chapter of Heyward-Bey's career began in 2014 when he joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. Initially brought in on a one-year contract, he found a niche role within the team, contributing both as a receiver and on special teams. Over the years with the Steelers, he became known for his leadership and work ethic, often praised by coaches and teammates for his professionalism. While his receiving numbers were modest, with his best season being 2015 when he caught 21 passes for 314 yards and two touchdowns, his value extended beyond statistics.
Heyward-Bey's speed made him a valuable asset on special teams, and he embraced this role, helping the Steelers in various capacities. His tenure with Pittsburgh lasted five seasons, during which he played in 58 games and was part of several playoff runs. His ability to adapt and contribute in different ways was appreciated by the organization, and he became a respected veteran presence in the locker room.
After the 2018 season, Heyward-Bey's time in the NFL came to a close.
🏈