Steelers' Roman Wilson addresses controversial role to start season

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. There was a lot of hope that the Michigan prospect could contribute right away as a rookie, but those expectations didn’t materialize. Wilson struggled with injuries, and head coach Mike Tomlin later said he simply couldn’t get on the moving train. What was supposed to be a promising start to his NFL career ended up being a frustrating and limited rookie season.

Heading into the 2025 offseason, expectations for Wilson were even higher. Fans and analysts believed he could make a real impact after a year in the system, but through the first four games of the season, Wilson has only played 44 offensive snaps. The lack of playing time has left many Steelers fans confused and frustrated, unsure why a talented young receiver isn’t seeing the field more often.

Steelers' Roman Wilson discusses the controversial situation

On Friday, Wilson addressed the controversial situation in a conversation with Steelers insider Mark Kaboly. While he didn’t shy away from discussing his frustrations, he remained professional, emphasizing his focus on preparation and making the most of any opportunities he gets. The discussion has only added to the intrigue around Wilson’s role in Pittsburgh’s offense, leaving fans eagerly waiting to see if he can finally break through.

"I just have no comment on everything," Wilson said while speaking with Kaboly on Friday. "That’s just how I feel about everything that is going on. I feel good. I just don’t have much to say."

With Aaron Rodgers in town, it seemed like Wilson could really benefit from playing alongside such a respected and veteran quarterback. Now, with the uncertain status of wide receiver Calvin Austin III due to injury, Wilson has an even greater opportunity to step up and make an impact if Tomlin decides to give him the chance.

Kaboly asked Wilson a bunch of questions, including how he feels about only playing in 44 offensive snaps so far. He also wanted to know if Wilson expects to see an increase in playing time on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. Wilson gave the same answer to all of Kaboly’s follow-up questions, showing just how focused and locked in he is.

"I plead the fifth," Wilson said.

It has to be confusing for Wilson as well. He was drafted into what was perceived to be a weak wide receiver room, and even in the 2025 season, depth behind superstar DK Metcalf is still limited. That led many to believe this would be the year Wilson took a big step forward. However, he hasn’t been given many opportunities to do so yet. Tomlin insists he is still watching closely and that there is plenty of time in the season for Wilson to make his impact felt.

Roman Wilson should get big moment on Sunday

Hearing Wilson stay so focused and locked in is encouraging. It’s the same mindset that made Pittsburgh select him in the first place, and it’s a trait that has always defined his approach to the game. Now in his second season, Steeler Nation is eager to see what he can do on the NFL field.

It’s impossible to know what Wilson can truly accomplish if he never gets the chances he needs. With Austin out on Sunday, Wilson should see more opportunities, but Steelers fans will have to wait and watch to see how much of an impact he can make. 

The Browns will be keying in on Metcalf, and someone will have to step up. Wilson isn’t getting into the topic of why he hasn’t played much, but it’s clear he’s starving for a chance to make an impact.

How do you feel about Roman Wilson’s limited opportunities in the 2025 season?