Roman Wilson

Roman Wilson showed promise with 48 receptions for 789 yards and 12 touchdowns in his standout senior year at Michigan (37% dominator, 6th-highest in the class). However, concerns arise due to his late breakout age at 22 and limited overall production. With the Steelers likely maintaining a run-heavy offense under OC Arthur Smith and Wilson's role as a deep threat in college, the 2024 third-round draft pick's fantasy impact could be limited despite Pittsburgh's history of success with mid-round WR selections.

Wilson can rip zone coverage with hot, nasty speed and fluid hips. He can slice through off coverage as a steady target (2.0% drop rate in 2023). Wilson has a quick first step and speed, which allows him to gain separation on shallow crossers and stop routes. He can stretch a defense vertically, but he's not a YAC threat or a wondrous tackle breaker. Wilson had only nine missed tackles forced and 5.4 yards after the catch per reception in college. He can make plays with the ball in his hands, but it's reliant upon his speed. Wilson needs to continue to hone his releases. Wilson can beat zone coverage, but the instances that he has faced press coverage have given him fits. He hasn't exhibited the necessary release package or upper body strength to beat press coverage. Once a corner gets their hands on him, it is game over. Wilson struggles to play through contact during his routes. He should continue to operate as a slot receiver in the NFL. Dynasty Outlook: Wilson should push to start in two wide receiver sets immediately in Pittsburgh. The Steelers drafted him in the third round, and their talented rookie should be in the lineup in Week 1 over Van Jefferson or Calvin Austin unless Mike Tomlin goes the route of veteran deference. Wilson is a strong late second-round/early third-round rookie draft pick in all formats. The biggest hindrance to his short and long-term upside could be Arthur Smith. Since 2021, Smith has directed offenses that had the third-highest neutral rushing rate, and I don't see that changing in Pittsburgh. As long as Smith is calling the shots, the passing volume will be limited, so Wilson will have to be hyper-efficient with his targets.