The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant decision by trading away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson. While this move has strengthened their defense with the addition of highly-regarded defensive back Donte Jackson, it has also left a gaping hole in their offensive lineup at the wide receiver position.
Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' former WR Diontae Johnson catches a football against former Steelers S Terrell Edmunds of the Tennessee Titans in 2023.
Anticipating this void, many analysts foresaw the Steelers making a substantial trade to address their wide receiver needs. Recent reports have confirmed that the Steelers are actively pursuing opportunities in the trade market. However, with time running short and the draft looming closer, it appears increasingly likely that Pittsburgh will turn to the draft to fill the gap. They appear to be eyeing potential wide receiver prospects on day two or day three.
Pro Football Focus has identified two viable options at wide receiver: one projected for day two and another for day three of the draft, both of whom the Steelers could and perhaps should target.
Roman Wilson
Wilson emerged as a pivotal wide receiver during Michigan's championship-winning campaign in 2023, playing a significant role in their success. His impressive stats speak for themselves: with 48 receptions, 789 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns during the season. Adding Wilson to the Steelers' offense would undoubtedly inject excitement and firepower into their passing game according to PFF.
“New Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson would likely have flashbacks of Tyler Lockett if he were to throw passes to Roman Wilson. The former Wolverine is an ultra-competitive downfield threat who posted a perfect 99.9 deep receiving grade last season. He also dropped only one pass among his 67 targets.”
He's garnered high praise for his reliability, as highlighted by PFF, and is currently projected to be selected in the third round. If he remains on the board when the Steelers are on the clock, he would be a highly logical choice for the team, bringing with him a skill set that aligns perfectly with their needs.
Junfu Hang / USA Today Network
Roman Wilson is an explosive athlete that once the ball is in his hands he can make anyone miss.
Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint
Rosemy-Jacksaint, a wide receiver hailing from Georgia, followed in the footsteps of George Pickens by donning the iconic number one jersey during his collegiate career. Despite slightly modest stats of 34 receptions for 535 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 2023, his physical attributes stand out—he stands at 6' 2" and weighs 195 pounds. Currently ranked as the 35th best wide receiver prospect in the draft, Rosemy-Jacksaint brings potential and athleticism to the table.
“Rosemy-Jacksaint’s college production — headlined by a career-high 535 receiving yards in 2023 — doesn’t scream future NFL starter. However, he does have a safe pair of hands, dropping none of the 63 catchable targets thrown his way over the past two seasons and averaging 2.47 yards per route run in 2023.”
PFF suggests that the Steelers could take a chance on Rosemy-Jacksaint on day three of the draft to strengthen their wide receiver corps. Despite being somewhat under the radar, he possesses considerable talent. His college career was hindered by a crowded wide receiver room, which limited his production. However, playing under a coach like Kirby Smart adds an element of excitement to his potential, especially if acquired on day three.
Dawgs Daily
Georgia WR Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint runs with the football.
However, it's worth noting that Rosemy-Jacksaint has encountered legal issues, including charges of reckless driving and speeding above the maximum limits in May of 2023. These misdemeanor charges resulted in his arrest and subsequent release on bail.
Nevertheless, given his untapped potential and the combination of legal hurdles and lower production, Rosemy-Jacksaint emerges as a sleeper prospect with significant upside.
Steelers’ 2024 NFL Draft Is Make Or Break
The pressure on the Steelers to nail the 2024 NFL draft is reaching new heights. It's a daunting challenge, considering the unpredictability of top picks and the uncertainty surrounding how a college standout's game will transition to the fast-paced, dynamic environment of the NFL
With pressing needs at wide receiver and center, the Steelers are searching for immediate impact players who can seamlessly step into key roles. The task is compounded by the difficulty of finding starters in the draft, adding immense pressure to complete what could be a transformative offseason.
Steelers fans are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the newest additions to their roster, brimming with anticipation for the infusion of talent that could shape the team's future. It's a thrilling time for football enthusiasts worldwide as they eagerly await the next chapter in their team's journey.
#SteelerNation
