BREAKING: Former Pitt standout expresses desire to play for the Steelers in 2024

One of the most dependable veterans in the NFL, who attended the University of Pittsburgh for his undergraduate studies, is interested in returning to play for his home team when he becomes a free agency in 2023.

“You never know,” said wide receiver Tyler Boyd. “Coach [Mike] Tomlin is amazing. He’s arguably one of the most genuine guys in the sports industry. Of course, I was a Pitt player, and I frequently ran into him and spoke with him exclusively about football. His disposition is more akin to that of a father figure; there is a wonderful bond.”

Boyd has played every season of his eight-year career with the Bengals. But his contract is expiring at the end of the season and Cincinnati may part ways with him with a couple of other big contracts to hand out.

Money is already tight after naming Joe Burrow the highest-paid quarterback in the league last summer and two other playmakers are about to receive hefty paydays as well.

WR Tee Higgins’ rookie contract is up while WR Ja’Marr Chase is eligible for a contract extension. The Bengals will have to pay if they wish to keep either.

Cincinnati would ideally be able to retain all three players. However, it appears that Boyd will be the early odd man out and that at least one of them won’t be on the team in 2024.

The beneficiaries might be the Steelers. With just 280 yards and zero touchdowns this season, veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson II is probably going to be cut because they’ll be saving $10 million against the cap.

Thus, Pittsburgh will require a new wide receiver to complement Diontae Johnson and George Pickens at number three. That might be the No. 55 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, having recorded at least 50 receptions and 600 yards in every NFL season save one.

Boyd is still open to playing in Pittsburgh, even if he decides to stay with the Bengals or sign with another team this offseason.

“Who knows,” Boyd continued. “Even if I don’t go after this year, I could do a one-year deal at the end of my career and maybe finish up, but who knows.”