The Pittsburgh Steelers are determined to fix issues that held them back during the last campaign. Matt Canada’s offense produced minimal success – costing the team numerous opportunities throughout the year. Investing in the offense during the off-season became a high priority. The Pittsburgh Steelers replaced their signal-caller with an experienced run-first coordinator.

Offseason opportunities helped the front office revamped the quarterback room after Arthur Smith settled in with the team. Eventually, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields became the newest members of the black and gold.

Assistance from the 2024 NFL Draft gave Mike Tomlin’s roster extra support heading into a long journey. Their third-round (84) draft selection will have a high payoff.

How will Roman Wilson elevate the Pittsburgh Steelers offense?

The Pittsburgh Steelers will benefit from having another reliable WR

What comes to mind when we think of the characteristics of successful Pittsburgh receivers? Outstanding blocking skills and physicality helped Hines Ward cement his legacy at Heinz Field.

Antonio Brown, Mike Williams, and Santonio Holmes elevated their careers by making big plays in special moments. It’s been a while since the Steelers could rely on a wideout to perform at a high level. George Pickens did his best to carry the offensive load last season. Defenses caught on, and the sophomore grew frustrated.

Double teams and extra attention did not stop the former Georgia Bulldog from making a difference. He led the Steelers in receiving yards (1,190), yards per reception (17.5) and receptions (68). Pickens proved he is a primary receiver despite poor performances from his quarterbacks.

Assistance from another skilled receiver will only open the door for Pittsburgh’s developing superstar. Here is where Roman Wilson comes in to earn his keep.

Roman Wilson is a perfect WR for Arthur Smith

Incorporating raw talent into the scheme will be an exciting task for the Steelers’ newest offensive coordinator. The franchise performed poorly last season, so any progress is appreciated. An extensive effort during the off-season provided Arthur Smith with essential pieces to work with. He has a veteran quarterback and a reliable backup.

Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are reliable workhorses in the backfield and will experience success with an innovative group of linemen. The most exciting part of the migration is inserting Roman Wilson into the slot.

The Michigan Wolverines convincingly won the FBS National Title. John Harbaugh led his team through the regular and post-season. He relied on X-Factor players to come through in big moments. Roman Wilson was one of those men. His desire to improve changed the projection of his career. The former Wolverine began his career in 2020 as a reserve before becoming a second-team All-Big Ten target by his senior year.

Wilson tied ninth in the FBS in touchdown receptions (12) and led his team in receiving yards (789). Athleticism and determination carried the versatile slot receiver to the NFL stage. He’s excited to earn a chance with the Steelers, but what can we expect to see from the rookie?

A heavy dosage of wide zone runs will keep defenses on their toes this season. Arthur Smith is a conservative play-caller who enjoys exerting physicality to score points. Play-action passes will become vital for Pittsburgh as they yearn to stretch the field. Receivers will find room behind eager safeties in run support – opening a sweet spot for Wilson to make an impact.

The rookie is already active – receiving passes across the field during Pittsburgh’s minicamps. He will be someone to keep an eye on in the upcoming months.