Mike McCarthy's arrival may be disappointing Steelers draft pick's saving grace

Anticipation towards the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 season is reaching a fever pitch. Off-season acquisitions, draft boards, and OTAs kept those willing to follow on the edge of their seats. But despite the assurance, questions linger concerning WR coach Adam Henry’s receiving core. DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman headline a potential group. 

But I do not know what to expect from Roman Wilson. And that has become a recurring theme. 

Yes, Wilson, the former leading wideout for the Michigan Wolverines. He’s known for his 789 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during a championship season. So his collegiate career rings a bell. But silence follows when discussing the third-rounder’s professional career. It sounds brutal, but it's the truth. Honestly, it's held Pittsburgh back in recent campaigns. 

Since 2024, he’s recorded 12 receptions, 166 yards, and two touchdowns. Sure, a high ankle sprain during his rookie training camp did not help him sprint onto the scene. Later hamstring aggravation made it harder to play catch-up. Wilson’s always been behind the eight ball. It even shows when compared to his peers. 

Jalen McMillian (639), Troy Franklin (972) and Luke McCaffrey (371) have all outproduced Wilson in receiving yards, receptions and touchdowns since their NFL debut. They each were selected after Wilson in the 2024 Draft. Did the front office miss something, or were they swindled?

More importantly, where do the Steelers turn from here?

Roman Wilson must earn new role in Mike McCarthy's debut season with Pittsburgh Steeelers

The answer should already be in Mike McCarthy’s palm.

Last season, Wilson played a limited role in Arthur Smith’s scheme. His appearances were seldom, leaving fans perplexed amid an offensive crisis. At times, it felt like the Steelers wrote off an obvious solution. Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Calvin Austin III led the charge in the slot. 

But they are both no longer with the team. It opens the door for Wilson to earn more playing time. Eventually, he should become a recurring theme in McCarthy’s scheme. 

We know Pittsburgh cannot afford hiccups this season. The stakes are high - even if the temperature appears cool. Aaron Rodgers ’ one-year deal was a gamble. He’s 42 years old with something to prove. And on the other hand, Pittsburgh is desperate but wants to remain relevant. I can understand one hand washing the other. But what happens if there is an unexpected mess?

That’s where Mike McCarthy and his staff come in. I believe Pittsburgh has enough pieces to experience success. But they need all hands on deck. Including Roman Wilson. There’s no better way to respond to a call than by picking up. The stage is set for Pittsburgh’s X-Factor to rise to the occasion. 

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