The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it a priority to revamp their receiving corps this offseason. After struggling at the position last year, the team took a major step by acquiring D.K. Metcalf in a blockbuster trade. With Metcalf and George Pickens leading the passing game, Pittsburgh now boasts a formidable duo for their aerial attack.
However, the Steelers may not be finished making changes. They have shown considerable interest in this year’s receiver draft class, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them select another wideout. While these moves were necessary, they raise uncertainty about the future of a recent draft pick.
At the moment, things aren’t looking promising for Roman Wilson.
Wilson was selected in the third round last year with the expectation that he could help replace Diontae Johnson’s precise route running and ability to create plays after the catch. Coming out of Michigan, he brought a distinctive style to Pittsburgh’s offense.
Unfortunately, Wilson struggled early on. Reports indicated that he had difficulty grasping the playbook in training camp, and injuries further hampered his progress. He was active for just one game before being placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.
Historically, receivers who have such challenging rookie years rarely bounce back to secure a meaningful role in the future. If the Steelers were planning to give Wilson a bigger opportunity in 2025, the outlook might be different, but that doesn’t appear to be the case.
Pittsburgh already has two established starters at the position, assuming Pickens remains with the team. Under Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme, which relies less on three-receiver sets and slot receivers than many modern offenses, Wilson’s role looks increasingly uncertain.
Even when the offense does utilize a third receiver, Calvin Austin has already proven himself as a valuable asset. Though not an every-down player, his speed and effort make him a legitimate big-play threat.
Adding another rookie receiver in the draft, along with the presence of Ben Skowronek for running plays and special teams contributions, pushes Wilson further down the depth chart. At this point, his spot on the roster isn’t even guaranteed.
What once seemed like a strong third-round value pick now appears to be a major misstep. Wilson struggled at every turn as a rookie, and as the Steelers move forward with their offense in 2025, it looks like they may be doing so without him.
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