Pittsburgh Steelers fans have experienced significant changes this offseason, particularly with the team’s quarterback situation, teaching them to expect the unexpected. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently discussed the Steelers’ ongoing situation with wide receiver Tyler Boyd, emphasizing that despite mutual interest between Boyd and the team, no agreement has been reached on a contract.
Fowler’s report on April 5 suggested that Pittsburgh might still extend one final offer to Boyd, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming NFL draft. Fowler mentioned during NFL Live that while several teams have expressed interest in Boyd over the past month, he might wait until after the draft to make a decision, potentially becoming an option for a team still in need of a receiver after the initial draft selections.
Boyd, a native of Clairton, PA, and a former player for Pitt football, has spent his entire career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Last season, he recorded 67 catches for 667 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
Given the Steelers’ need for a starting wide receiver, Boyd’s skill set could be a valuable addition to the team. Despite signing Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins in free agency, both players combined for only 351 receiving yards last season, whereas Boyd has consistently posted at least 650 yards each year since 2018.
Boyd predominantly lined up in the slot last season, offering versatility to the Steelers’ offense. While ideally, the team might target a receiver in the draft and still sign Boyd, his experience and adaptability could alleviate the pressure on a rookie receiver to start immediately.
However, there’s uncertainty regarding Boyd’s potential signing with the Steelers. The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly expressed skepticism, considering Boyd’s initial discomfort with the team’s offer during free agency. Despite reports of a 2-year, $10 million offer from the Steelers, it falls below Boyd’s projected market value of $26 million over three years. While the Steelers may reconsider their offer post-draft, it remains uncertain if Boyd’s return to Pittsburgh is plausible.
In summary, while there’s hope among Steelers fans for Boyd’s return, the negotiations remain complex, with the outcome dependent on various factors, including the team’s draft selections and Boyd’s contractual expectations.
