Steelers' Roman Wilson Catches Pittsburgh's Eye With Impressive Versatility

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have addressed many defensive needs during the early offseason, but they are using the 2024 NFL Draft to fix some offensive woes. They have chosen tackle Troy Fautanu, center Zach Frazier, and now wide receiver Roman Wilson in their first three picks. These three picks fell in place for the Steelers like they were meant to be, addressing their biggest needs. 

General Manager Omar Khan has said the team values versatility and flexible players all offseason. That trend of acquiring highly athletic players who can thrive in various positions continued with Wilson. During the team's post-selection press conference, new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith spoke to the media about what it was about Wilson they loved so much. 

"He's got versatility. As the game's evolved, if you do motion, if you play condensed on early downs, whether you're at the X or Z, it's kind of interchangeable. You get into some of the drop-back situations in the passing down, and he's got inside-out flex," said Smith. "Certainly, you like his instincts. You can play him inside on obvious pass situations. He'll have a lot of versatility; he's got a lot of instincts."

Smith shared that spending time with Wilson was an absolute pleasure. It was easy for him to see how his team at the University of Michigan won a National Championship. The Pittsburgh staff are thrilled to add a player of such high value and experience in the third round.

Wilson is originally from Maui, Hawaii and played 46 games for Michigan. He had 107 receptions for 1,707 yards and 20 touchdowns. His best season was in 2023, when he had 48 catches in 15 games for 789 yards and 12 touchdowns. 

He was sub 4.4 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, finishing in 4.39. He was praised for his smooth route running and ability to unleash incredible speed. That speed is a big part of why he was such a bonus for Michigan, attacking the deeper parts of the field.

Will Steelers' George Pickens And Roman Wilson Complement Each Other?

Wilson joins the Steelers' current receiving corps, including George Pickens, Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III, and Quez Watkins. Pickens and Diontae Johnson were the top receivers in 2023, but Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers this offseason. 

Wilson is also a strong blocker, which is something Smith's offense can definitely benefit from. In addition to his ability to catch and run, Wilson has soft hands and can generally create separation. While the offseason isn't over yet, barring a trade for a veteran, it appears that Wilson will be their number two receiver. 

Some fans are concerned about pairing a rookie with a seemingly immature Pickens. Wilson has not shown any of the diva-like behaviors that Pickens and Johnson did last season. Hopefully, Pickens will see this as an opportunity to display some leadership and will take Wilson under his wing.