Roman Wilson

Wilson was benched behind veterans Thielen, MVS, and Scotty Miller despite injuries to Austin and Metcalf suspension. Beat reporters cite performance concerns, suggesting organizational loss of confidence.

Wilson's target share fell to just 5% in his most recent game despite 44% snap rate, indicating he is consistently being schemed around rather than through. His 4.3 PPG and PPR rank of #120 through 9 games confirm he has been unable to establish a consistent role.

Multiple beat reporters and dynasty outlets (Fantasy Footballers, Last Word on Sports, AtoZ Sports) identify Wilson as a trade or cut candidate post-draft. With Wetjen (R4), Skowronek, and others also on the roster, Wilson's spot on the 53-man roster is no longer secure.

Two NFL seasons have produced just 12 catches, 166 yards, and 2 TDs — a deeply disappointing return on a 3rd-round investment. His last four logged games averaged 3.6 PPR points with two zero-point performances and a 5% target share ceiling.

Pittsburgh traded up in Round 2 for Germie Bernard and added Kaden Wetjen in Round 4 — two same-position picks that crowd the depth chart and signal the front office is not banking on Wilson's development.

Mike McCarthy's West Coast offense is historically friendlier to multiple WR sets and quick timing. McCarthy has Rodgers/Green Bay connections that favor higher-volume receivers.

Adam Thielen and MVS are short-term rentals; if either leaves in free agency, Wilson gains a realistic opportunity to claim the WR3/slot role with fresh coaching staff.

MVS and Adam Thielen are veteran free agents who could depart in 2026 offseason, potentially opening WR3/4 competition for Wilson if he improves in camp.

Wilson is 24 years old and was a 2024 third-round pick, giving him legitimate developmental runway. The Steelers have retained him through setbacks, signaling organizational belief in his long-term potential despite the crowded room.

At 24 with 3rd-round draft capital, Wilson is a credible reclamation target for a WR-needy team. A change of scenery to a thinner depth chart could instantly reopen a viable target-share path within a single offseason.

Wilson reportedly took WR3 reps ahead of Bernard during OTAs, and HC Mike McCarthy has repeatedly praised his offseason ('crushing it,' 'a lot there to work with'), giving him a genuine, if fragile, path to the No. 3 role.