Steelers' Roman Wilson Offers Optimistic Update To Pittsburgh Fans: 'I Feel Really Good'

The Pittsburgh Steelers had some major concerns at the wide receiver spot after they traded away Diontae Johnson early into the 2024 offseason. The trade left a void in the receiving corps, creating uncertainty about who would step up to complement George Pickens. In an attempt to address the concern, the Steelers made a significant move in the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round. Wilson, with his speed and playmaking potential, generated a lot of excitement as a potential difference-maker for the offense.

Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned for Wilson during the offseason. An early injury during practice set him back, and he hasn't had much action during the 2024 season. The rookie wideout has only been active for one game so far, a limited appearance against the Las Vegas Raiders. While fans were hopeful for a significant impact, Wilson's development has been delayed, leaving many wondering when he would be able to fully contribute.

On Tuesday, Wilson returned to practice, which was a positive sign for both the player and the team. Though he remains on the Reserve/PUP list and it’s unlikely he will be available for the Week 18 regular season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals, any positive news about the rookie receiver is encouraging. Steelers fans, who have been eager to see what Wilson can bring, will be watching closely as he continues to recover and work his way back into the mix for the future. Wilson spoke to the media to provide an update on how he is currently feeling.

"I feel really good," Wilson said when speaking to the media. "My body feels better than it’s ever felt in a long time. Mentally I can’t really find a word for it, just focused, and determined. I got a lot of expectations for myself and a lot of things I got to do to be able to reach those goals."

It hasn't been an ideal first year in the NFL for Wilson, who was clearly hoping to contribute rather than spend the entire season sidelined. 

Despite the setbacks, the optimism surrounding his future remains strong, and fans are eager to hear more from him as he works toward a comeback.

"Every day I’m just trying to do everything I can to become a better football player and a better person and just grow," Wilson said. "That’s all I’m really focused on. Whenever I’m ready, I’ll be ready. I trust these coaches and believe in the plan."

Wilson was drafted by the Steelers for his team-first mentality, a quality that stood out during his time at Michigan. Having thrived in a run-heavy offense, he became known as a touchdown machine, always putting the team’s success ahead of individual glory. Even when he wasn’t part of the passing game, Wilson loved getting his hands dirty, diving into the trenches to help block and support the running game.

Steelers' Roman Wilson Is The Perfect Wide Receiver For Pittsburgh 

He embodies the qualities the Steelers have long valued in their wide receivers—someone who’s unselfish and enjoys physically dominating defenders, much like the legendary Hines Ward. That rugged, hard-nosed mentality is exactly what Pittsburgh needs. Although the injury has sidelined him for much of the season, the Steelers have been extremely cautious with his recovery, ensuring he returns at full strength.

It’s a tough situation, given Pittsburgh's desperate need for help at the position, yet fans have had to trust the coaching staff and medical team’s judgment. While it’s been frustrating to see Wilson take so long to return, there’s hope that once healthy, he can make a meaningful impact. Whether he’ll get a chance to suit up in the playoffs remains uncertain, but the possibility, while slim, is still on the table.