The situation surrounding Tyler Boyd’s potential signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers has encountered some uncertainties, primarily related to financial considerations. Reports suggest that the Steelers are hesitant about committing to pay Boyd, a potential third receiver, a salary in the range of $8 to $9 million per season.
Although Boyd has garnered interest from other teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and the New York Jets, recent signings by those teams have shifted the field, literally and figuratively. With Marquise “Hollywood” Brown joining the Chiefs and the Jets securing Mike Williams, Boyd’s options may be narrowing.
Despite the financial negotiations, Boyd has expressed interest in joining the Steelers, citing his admiration for Coach Mike Tomlin and his strong connection to Pittsburgh as a native and former University of Pittsburgh standout. Boyd sees Tomlin as a mentor figure, and the prospect of playing for his hometown team holds significant appeal to him.
From the Steelers’ perspective, adding Boyd would address their need for a slot receiver, particularly after recent departures from the receiving corps. However, the decision ultimately hinges on reaching an agreement that satisfies both parties financially and aligns with the team’s roster strategy moving forward.
A former No. 1 receiver in Cincinnati, Boyd achieved consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons in 2018 and 2019. He gracefully accepted a reduced role in 2020 when the Bengals drafted Tee Higgins in the second round, followed by Ja’Marr Chase a year later with the fifth overall pick.
Rather than voice complaints, Boyd embraced his adjusted role, contributing significantly to the Bengals’ rapid transformation from one of the league’s weakest teams to one of its strongest. In 2021, he recorded 67 receptions for 828 yards and five touchdowns during the regular season, playing a pivotal role in the Bengals’ journey to the Super Bowl.
Over the past two seasons, Tyler Boyd amassed a combined total of 125 receptions for 1,429 yards and seven touchdowns.
Should he join Pittsburgh, Boyd would become part of an offense featuring notable talents such as three-time 1,000-yard running back Najee Harris, fellow running back Jaylen Warren, wideout George Pickens, and tight end Pat Freiermuth. The offense will be orchestrated by Russell Wilson, with Justin Fields as his backup.
While the Steelers have the financial means to sign Boyd, their approach indicates a strategic use of resources in free agency to enhance their roster. This approach is evidently guiding their negotiations with Boyd as they seek to bolster their team through free agency.