Insider reveals 'biggest hurdle' to Steelers bringing home former Pitt star

The Steelers have a clear need at wide receiver after agreeing to trade Diontae Johnson to the Panthers. 

Since the trade became official, fans and the media couldn't help but connect the dots between Pittsburgh and free-agent WR Tyler Boyd, who grew up in Clairton, Pa., and played collegiate ball at the University of Pittsburgh.

On Wednesday, The Athletic's Mark Kaboly revealed that the Steelers and Boyd have "mutual interest" and have had dialogue about him returning to his hometown, but added there is "nothing imminent."

It seems like a perfect pairing. Boyd would be able to return to his hometown state and have the chance to prove he can be a No. 2 wide receiver after shadowing Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the Bengals the past few years.

So, what is the holdup?

"Biggest hurdle in Tyler Boyd to Steelers conversation are the Chiefs with dark horse being the Jets," Kaboly posted on platform X.

That doesn't bode well for the Steelers, who must convince Boyd to join them instead of playing with quarterback Patrick Mahomes on the defending Super Bowl champions.

Kansas City has a clear need at wide receiver after its group led the league in drops (44) last season. To improve the room, Kansas City would likely be willing to pay Boyd a fair contract.

To make matters worse, turning down playing with QB Aaron Rodgers and the Jets would be difficult if they are also seriously interested in Boyd.

It isn't surprising that Boyd has several suitors. The 29-year-old has been one of the most reliable wide receivers in the league, posting at least 50 catches and 650 receiving yards in the last six seasons.

However, Boyd must decide which team best fits him heading into his ninth season in the NFL. The Steelers are surely hoping it's them.