Roman Wilson injury update: Steelers make major roster decision on rookie WR ahead of MNF

The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) have placed rookie receiver Roman Wilson on injured reserve, the team announced Monday.

The move comes just hours away from the Steelers’ Week 8 home matchup against the New York Giants (2-5) on Monday Night Football. Aside from Wilson, Pittsburgh released running back Aaron Shampklin from the 53-man roster. In corresponding moves, running back Jonathan Ward has been signed to the active roster from the practice squad, while receiver Brandon Johnson is being elevated to the active/inactive roster from the practice squad.

Wilson, whom the Steelers selected in the third round (84th overall) of this year’s NFL Draft out of Michigan, has played in just one game this season. The 23-year-old has dealt with injuries, suffering an ankle injury during training camp. He most recently has been hampered by a hamstring injury.

Wilson made his debut in the 32-13 Week 6 road win over the Las Vegas Raiders (2-6). He saw just 7% of the snaps, failing to get on the stat sheet.

Roman Wilson suffers another setback in rookie season

Head coach Mike Tomlin explained last Tuesday what Wilson needs to do to see the playing field.

“As we’ve talked repeatedly in this setting, Roman needs to work for me to really consider him,” Tomlin said, via Steelers Now. “His participation got compromised some last week. And so really, once it got compromised, I moved on.”

The Steelers have struggled to find production from their wideouts despite the hot start to the season. George Pickens leads the team with 31 receptions for 474 yards. Calvin Austin is the only other receiver with over 100 yards (11 catches, 203 yards).