NFL free agency in 2024: The obstacle preventing a potential agreement between Tyler Boyd and the Steelers.

March 21, 2024

NFL free agency in 2024: The obstacle preventing a potential agreement between Tyler Boyd and the Steelers.

Tyler Boyd's anticipated move to the Pittsburgh Steelers appeared certain as free agency commenced. However, the situation has become less straightforward with the former Cincinnati Bengals receiver remaining without a contract.

According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Post-Gazette, finances are the primary cause for the delay. The Steelers are deliberating whether they are willing to commit $8 to $9 million per season to a potential third receiver, as reported via 93.7 The Fan.

Aside from the Steelers, Boyd has attracted interest from the Chiefs and the Jets. However, the Chiefs recently secured Marquise "Hollywood" Brown, while the Jets reached an agreement with veteran Mike Williams. Meanwhile, Boyd remains unsigned, and the Steelers are actively seeking to add a receiver to complement George Pickens, Calvin Austin III, and the recently acquired Van Jefferson.

Despite financial considerations, Boyd has expressed a keen interest in joining the Steelers. As a native of Pittsburgh and a standout at the University of Pittsburgh, Boyd has openly discussed the prospect of playing for his hometown team.

"You can never say for certain," Boyd shared with Pittsburgh Sports Now. "I have immense respect for Coach [Mike] Tomlin. He's undoubtedly one of the most authentic individuals in the sports world. Given my time at Pitt, I've had numerous interactions with him, discussing football and beyond. His demeanor is akin to that of a father figure, fostering a strong bond. It's a compelling connection, but the future remains uncertain. Perhaps, even if it doesn't materialize this year, I could entertain a one-year deal towards the twilight of my career and potentially conclude it here. However, one can never predict."

In general, Boyd's potential signing with Pittsburgh appears logical. The Steelers are seeking a replacement slot receiver following the departure of Allen Robinson II and the trade of Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers.

Boyd, formerly a primary receiver in Cincinnati, achieved back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons in 2018 and 2019. He adjusted to a reduced role in 2020 when the Bengals selected Tee Higgins in the second round, and subsequently drafted Ja'Marr Chase with the fifth overall pick the following year.

Rather than expressing discontent, Boyd embraced his altered role, which contributed significantly to the Bengals' rapid transformation from one of the NFL's weakest teams to one of the strongest. In the 2021 regular season, he recorded 67 receptions for 828 yards and five touchdowns, aiding the Bengals in reaching the Super Bowl. Across the past two seasons, he amassed a combined total of 125 receptions for 1,429 yards and seven touchdowns.

Should he join Pittsburgh, Boyd would become part of an offensive unit featuring three-time 1,000-yard rusher Najee Harris, fellow running back Jaylen Warren, wide receiver George Pickens, and tight end Pat Freiermuth. Russell Wilson is set to lead the offense, with Justin Fields as the backup.

Financially, the Steelers possess the resources to secure Boyd's services, yet their approach to budget allocation demonstrates a calculated strategy. Pittsburgh aims to enhance its roster through free agency, a factor evidently influencing their negotiations with Boyd.

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NFL free agency in 2024: The obstacle preventing a potential agreement between Tyler Boyd and the Steelers.

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