PITTSBURGH -- Amid prolonged contract talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers , defensive captain and four-time All-Pro defensive lineman Cameron Heyward said Friday he's "preparing" when asked if he was going to play vs. the New York Jets on Sunday.

However, Heyward didn't commit to being on the field for the team's season opener.

"I'm preparing," he said. "Still got some time, but we'll see."

Asked if his playing status hinged on the completion of a reworked contract, Heyward was vague.

"I wish I had a straight answer for you right now," he said. "All I can tell you is I've had to have a lot of tough conversations with my family."

Heyward was equally vague about his level of optimism that the contract situation would be resolved by Sunday.

"I wish I could be more optimistic, but [

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