Steelers' Roman Wilson Is Quietly Locking Down New Role In Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers used their third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Roman Wilson. The wide receiver was expected to come in as a rookie and immediately contribute, showing flashes of the explosive playmaking ability that made him a standout at Michigan. However, an early injury derailed his momentum and limited his opportunities during his first season in Pittsburgh. As Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin would put it, Wilson struggled to “get on the moving train,” a challenge many young players face when trying to adapt to the speed and complexity of the NFL.

Now in the 2025 season, Wilson has begun to turn the corner. Fully healthy and more comfortable in the Steelers’ system, he is earning increased playing time and has made the most of every opportunity. His route running, hands, and burst after the catch have stood out in practices and early-season games, providing glimpses of why the Steelers were so high on him during the draft process. Wilson’s growth has come at an important time as the team continues to search for consistent production behind DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III.

According to Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo via 93.7 The Fan on Friday morning, the coaching staff is eager to give Wilson more chances in that wide receiver three role. His versatility allows him to line up both inside and outside, giving Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith more flexibility with his play designs. If Wilson continues to build on his early-season progress, he could emerge as a critical piece in the Steelers’ offensive resurgence and possibly even develop into the reliable weapon Pittsburgh hoped for when they drafted him.

"Aaron [Rodgers] talked about him this week. He loves him," Fittipaldo said Friday via 93.7 The Fan's Pomp and Joe Show. "Everyone wanted to know when it was gonna happen. I said be patient. Sometimes with guys who haven't played, the light has to go on for them, and that's exactly what happened with Roman."

For Wilson, the type of production he is achieving early in his second season is not earth-shattering, but it is a start. For a player who struggled to get opportunities on the field, Wilson has now begun to gain real momentum. 

He has recorded a catch in each of the last three games, and then on Sunday night against the Packers, he had four catches for 74 yards and one touchdown. It was a great moment for Wilson in an otherwise forgettable second half of the game for Pittsburgh fans. Still, Fittipaldo believes Wilson has now firmly established himself in the WR3 spot behind Metcalf and Austin.

"I would expect to continue to see him blossom a little bit in that No. 3 role," Fittipaldo told the show.

Steelers' Wide Receiver Roman Wilson Starting To Emerge

Wilson’s early progress in 2025 signals more than just a small step forward. It hints at a player growing into a meaningful role in the Steelers’ offense. While he is not yet a game-changer, his consistency and ability to make plays when called upon give the coaching staff new options and flexibility.

Wilson’s versatility, work ethic, and confidence are becoming evident. If he continues to build on these performances, he could emerge as a reliable weapon that defenses cannot ignore. For Pittsburgh, Wilson’s development could be one of the quiet but crucial stories of the season. 

The Steelers look forward as they prepare to host the red-hot Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in Week 9. Wilson hopes to continue his momentum with another big game.

What are your expectations for the Steelers and Roman Wilson in the remainder of 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.

#SteelerNation