PITTSBURGH --Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers continue to be impressed by what Roman Wilson does at OTAs. Next week in mandatory minicamp, Wilson will have the chance to prove he can be part of the solution with Aaron Rodgers now in the building.
Steelers veteran wide receiver Robert Woods is extremely impressed by what Wilson has done so far.
Yeah, coming to work ready to work. Coming out here, obviously you see he’s fast and skillful, but when you see his approach, just coming in here, taking the details to improve his game, he had a great week. This week me and him had some big explosive plays, but really I feel like just give him confidence. He’s a confident player, be able to make his plays, be himself, and get the ball in his hands. I think when you give confidence to that whole room, our whole room, the sky’s the limit."
Calvin Austin III confirmed that Wilson caught a touchdown on a fade route on Tuesday, skying above a defensive back and bringing it down. And it was no surprise to the Steelers wide receivers that Wilson is going off like he is now.
“Well, we’re not surprised,” Wilson said. “I feel like we all knew this what Roman could do, but he is just showing everyone now. We didn’t have questions about him; he just answered other people’s questions. I can’t say I’m surprised.”
Wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni challenged Wilson to work on four things: route indicators, body level while running routes, blocking technique, and maintaining his burst in and out of breaks. Wilson worked in a local park back at his home to help craft those skills.
“I think with everything I’ve said, there’s some urgency to it. You gotta get going. I’m ready for it,” Wilson said.
Wilson’s physical tools have never been much in question. He has great explosiveness, and that instant acceleration made him shine as a slot receiver at Michigan. His tough, rugged style also led to just one drop in his career, a dependable target for the Wolverines.
Now, a year after his injury-riddled season, Wilson has changed his body to the point where teammates have said he ‘looks different,’ cutting some fat and adding muscle.
“I’ve been taking care of my body at an elite level. I’m just locked in. I feel like myself,” Wilson said.
In person, he looks explosive, and the Steelers have trained all of their wide receivers to play in the slot or outside, though Wilson projects as a slot-first with a smattering of Z-receiver reps. This is his chance to seize the opportunity.
“I don’t want to think too much about last year, but I definitely learned a lot and it definitely helped shape who I am this upcoming season,” Wilson said.
Wilson’s noticeable bulk-up might have the added benefit of making him more explosive, but his real key is to stay healthy. If he can stay on the field, a spot and role will be waiting for Wilson on the current depth chart.