Steelers' Roman Wilson Gives Direct Response After Being Benched Midseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers have some depth issues to work through during the final two weeks of the 2025 regular season. Most notably, wide receiver DK Metcalf will not play again until the postseason, if the team reaches the tournament. The front office and coaching staff didn't inspire too much confidence around the trade deadline, but worked diligently after it to sign veterans Adam Thielen and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. The hope is that the absence of a true top-end pass-catcher won't be felt; however, individuals like Roman Wilson will have a chance to prove themselves whether the upcoming games matter or not.

Wilson was drafted in the third round out of the University of Michigan. After it was originally believed that he could rise to the top of the depth chart, his young career has been nothing more than a disappointment. Most recently, after the arrival of the aforementioned veterans, he was listed as a healthy scratch for several meaningful contests. That isn't exactly something that will help a young playmaker develop.

On Wednesday, Wilson had an opportunity to speak with reporters after being sidelined. While some may believe he is frustrated and upset about his opportunities recently, the wideout took a different approach in reflecting on his benching. He wasn't pouting while in street clothes during games; he was using these weeks to better himself as a football player.

"It was a great time for me to go back and reflect on the season and learn where I can grow, learn where I can get better, and how I can improve myself," Wilson said. "So it was, in a weird way, a real blessing."

It's very encouraging to hear Wilson talk about a trip to the bench so professionally. Instead of complaining or making intriguing comments to the media, he decided to take the high road and acknowledge that he needs to better himself. That in and of itself shows growth that isn't always displayed from players on their first contracts. Hopefully, Wilson will prove himself throughout the course of Metcalf's absence so he can solidify himself a future with the Steelers.

Calvin Austin III is also dealing with a hamstring issue that is keeping him out of practice. An injury such as this could pave the way for Wilson to step up in-game, whether the matchups for Pittsburgh matter or not.

Wilson has 12 catches for 166 yards and two touchdowns in 2025, but hasn't really gotten much of a chance to perform consistently. He creates separation against defensive backs and has a solid set of hands; however, it appears as if the wide receivers' room has gotten too crowed for the second-year player. Now, with Metcalf suspended and Austin dealing with a hamstring ailment, the former Wolverine will have the opportunity to prove that he should be in the lineup more often.

Steelers Are Holding Out Hope Than Wilson Can Be Elite

While there isn't a lot of confidence amongst the fan base that Wilson will turn into a franchise-type receiver, he has a set of skills that could separate him. Aaron Rodgers may lean on the veterans while Metcalf is out, but it only takes one or two big plays for Wilson to put himself on the radar. He learned during his time on the bench, and now he has to back up those words on the field.

Do you think that the Steelers need to give Wilson more opportunities? Let us know in the comments below!

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