The Roman Wilson Reason Steelers Haven’t Added Another Wide Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers had arguably the busiest offseason in the NFL. However, if there’s one position on their roster that may be short a few bodies, it’s the wide receiver spot. And while the Steelers are well aware of this development, they don’t seem intent on making a move here because of second-year pass catcher Roman Wilson.

Pittsburgh shook up its wide receiver room when it acquired DK Metcalf in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks and promptly signed him to a five-year, $150 million contract extension. They followed that up by trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, breaking up their supposed one-two punch in the passing game.

While Metcalf is a star, the wide receiver depth chart behind him is a bit lacking. Calvin Austin III seems set to be the No. 2 option, with the veteran Robert Woods also factoring into the mix. Tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith will help, as will running back Jaylen Warren, but fans have wondered whether another wide receiver could be brought to town.

However, Pittsburgh has always seemed inclined to give its own players an opportunity to shine. That includes Wilson, whom the team selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. While he didn’t play much as a rookie, Wilson has taken a big step forward as of late, and he’s the primary reason the Steelers haven’t added more help at wide receiver to this point.

“The Steelers haven’t signed more veteran receivers up to this point in part because they are high on Roman Wilson, who impressed both in the joint practice with the Bucs and the game. Last night was a good sign for Pittsburgh,” Jeremy Fowler of ESPN shared in a post on X.

Wilson showed off his big-play ability on Saturday in the Steelers’ preseason clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as he racked up 72 yards on just two catches. Pittsburgh will likely have to gradually work Wilson into their offense, as they don’t want to disrupt his development, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see his role with the team grow throughout the year.

More NFL: Steelers Second-Year Defender Hit With ‘Most Improved’ Label