PITTSBURGH–Tyler Boyd, the most productive receiver in school history, continued Pitt’s rich tradition in the NFL Draft by being selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round this evening.
With Boyd’s selection, Pitt has now had at least one player chosen in 15 of the last 17 drafts. Boyd is the first Panther to be drafted by the Bengals since linebacker Tom Tumulty in 1996.
“The Bengals have themselves an outstanding receiver in Tyler Boyd,” Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi said. “He is an excellent fit for Cincinnati and should be ready to make immediate contributions there. Our entire program is incredibly proud of Tyler and wish him the very best as he begins his NFL career.”
Boyd declared for the 2016 NFL Draft following his junior season. He was named a first-team All-ACC wide receiver by the coaches and media for the second consecutive year. Boyd was also a third-team All-America selection by Phil Steele.
Boyd finished the 2015 season with 91 catches for 926 yards (10.2 avg.) and six touchdowns in 12 games. He was also Pitt’s second-leading rusher with 349 yards on 40 carries (8.7 avg.). Boyd’s 91 catches rank second on Pitt’s single-season list, one shy of the school record held by all-time greatLarry Fitzgerald (who had 92 in 2003).
The native of Clairton, Pa., established himself as one of the most productive offensive performers in Pitt history. Boyd finished his collegiate career as Pitt’s all-time leader in both receptions (254) and receiving yards (3,361). He finished second in career all-purpose yards (5,243), trailing only the legendary Tony Dorsett (7,117 from 1973-76).
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