After deciding to release Michael Gallup, the Dallas Cowboys have not added a receiver, but one former Cincinnati Bengals wide out is still available. Tyler Boyd might have the strongest resume of any remaining free agency receiver, though it won’t necessarily be inexpensive.
Boyd’s contract demands—more on that later—are the reason he is available, but it’s still astonishing that he hasn’t reached an agreement with the Bengals or another team by now. Boyd was a valuable and productive weapon on a Bengals offense that overcame the loss of quarterback Joe Burrow midway through the 2023 campaign, even in a “down” year.
Boyd’s 2023 total of 667 yards was the lowest since his 2017 second NFL season. That kind of regression is usually cause for concern, but it’s encouraging to be able to generate with a backup tossing the ball.
Boyd has the potential to be a vital member of the Cowboys offense because he plays larger than his 6’2″ frame and stands out from other wide receivers like CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks. Having said that, Dallas’ present strategy in the market does not indicate a significant wide receiver acquisition.
Why Boyd Is Available and Why He Is Affordable for the Cowboys
Boyd has been connected to a transfer to the Pittsburgh Steelers in recent weeks. However, Boyd’s contract demands seemed to cause things to cool down just as quickly as they heated up. Mark Kaboly of the Athletic reports that Pittsburgh is unwilling to reach those totals.
They’re attempting to wait Tyler Boyd out, according to Kaboly on 93.7 The Fan. “I’m not entirely sure how this will turn out in the end. I am aware that he desires a higher salary than what they are giving him.
Dallas or any other team that might be interested can now take advantage of this. It’s unclear, though, what Boyd is requesting or what the Steelers’ ceiling is. Boyd’s market worth, according to Spotrac, is approximately $8.7 million annually, so a three-year contract makes sense.
Although the Cowboys now only have $5 million in cap space, it shouldn’t be too difficult to cover the remaining amount. Supporters have already witnessed the team rework quarterback Dak Prescott’s deal, and doing so might save up some cash.
Tyler Boyd’s Prolonged Bengals Career
Boyd, who was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft, attended Pittsburgh during his college career and was active as a WR and RB. But ever since coming to Cincinnati, he’s transformed into a pure possession receiver.
Boyd made headlines in the country for the first time in 2018. Pro Football Reference indicates that Boyd led the Bengals with 1028 and 1046 receiving yards in 2018 and 2019, respectively, after only 828 total receiving yards in his first two seasons.
Boyd’s role was diminished with the acquisition of Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, but he has remained a reliable threat. Boyd has averaged 775 receiving yards and 3.8 touchdowns annually over the last four seasons.
While not very impressive, those figures are trustworthy and reasonable. Choosing to go with a seasoned player like Boyd is a safe bet if the Cowboys don’t intend to acquire a sensational talent in the draft.
