Mike Tomlin Revealing To Steelers Fans Why Roman Wilson Only Played 10 Snaps In Week 1

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The Michigan prospect was expected to contribute as a rookie, but injuries derailed his first season in Pittsburgh and limited his ability to showcase his talent. After a strong training camp in 2025, many pundits believed Wilson was ready to carve out a significant role in the Steelers’ passing game. 

However, in Week 1 against the New York Jets, Wilson only logged 10 offensive snaps, leaving fans questioning why the promising wideout wasn’t more involved in the offense. His limited action was surprising given the positive momentum he built in training camp, where he consistently flashed his route-running ability and chemistry with the quarterbacks. Many expected Wilson to be a key contributor right away, making his minimal usage a puzzling storyline coming out of the opener.

When Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin met with the Pittsburgh media on Tuesday to preview the team’s upcoming matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, he was asked about Wilson’s lack of opportunities in the opener. Tomlin addressed the situation directly, noting that the Steelers’ offensive approach will often change depending on the week, the opponent, and the game plan. He made it clear that Wilson’s role is not static and that snap counts will fluctuate based on circumstances, emphasizing that the young receiver’s time will come as the season unfolds.

"Lack of possession of the football and an agenda relevant to that day," Tomlin told the Pittsburgh media on Tuesday. "As I mentioned after the game, I have no intentions of explaining the minutiae of rep distribution week in and week out."

While Tomlin is typically difficult to read and has even admitted to occasionally misleading the media in order to gain advantages in weekly game planning, it still sounds like Wilson will be eased into action. 

As the season progresses, his snap count will likely fluctuate depending on the matchup, with opportunities increasing as he becomes more integrated into the offense.

"We got a really good collective," Tomlin said. "In some instances, highly specialized skill sets. In some weeks, those skill sets will be highlighted and utilized, and sometimes they will be minimized. It is just a component of winning football games in today's NFL, and it really does not require a lot of explanation."

For Steelers fans, Tomlin’s comments serve as both a reminder and a reassurance. The team is still figuring out its offensive identity under second-year Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, and different skill sets may be featured from game to game. 

Wilson, with his speed and versatility, remains an important piece of the Steelers’ long-term plans. While Week 1 may have been quiet for the second-year receiver, Tomlin’s words suggest that bigger opportunities could be just around the corner as Pittsburgh looks to open up its passing attack and find reliable production beyond its top playmakers.

Steelers' Aaron Rodgers Throws 4 Passing Touchdowns Against Ex-Team

Aaron Rodgers had a tremendous Week 1 showing against the team that cut him loose. He completed 22 of his 30 passes for 244 yards and threw four touchdowns without an interception. 

It was a masterclass from the 41-year-old quarterback. If he can stay healthy and continue delivering those types of performances, Steelers fans could see Wilson producing some exciting moments as Rodgers opens up the passing attack. Wilson just needs his opportunities. If Steelers fans buy into what Tomlin is selling, Wilson should be getting more chances in the upcoming weeks of the 2025 NFL season.

What are your expectations for Roman Wilson in the 2025 NFL season?Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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