Roman Wilson, a Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver drafted in the third round two years ago, has struggled to secure consistent playtime, being a healthy scratch in five of the final six games of the recent season, including the playoffs. This situation has led to Wilson drawing unfair criticism and being labeled a bust despite his draft status and potential. Christian Kuntz, the Steelers’ long snapper, firmly supports Wilson, emphasizing the receiver’s ongoing development and commitment.
Despite a pressing need for wide receiver talent heading into the 2026 season, Wilson has been largely overlooked, primarily due to his limited presence on the field in late 2024. However, with a new coaching regime led by head coach Mike McCarthy, Kuntz sees a different story behind the scenes and believes Wilson is progressing toward a significant breakthrough.
Behind the Scenes: Wilson’s Commitment to Improvement
Kuntz highlighted Wilson’s dedication and growth efforts, which have gone unnoticed by many outside the organization. He stated,
“There’s guys that aren’t producing that are developing on the team that no one’s heard of. One comes to my mind right now, Roman Wilson. People think the production wasn’t there the first two years and he’s like a bust…they’re calling him a bust. They don’t know that he’s working his ass off,”
Kuntz said, according to video via the show’s YouTube page.
“I will — and I’ve continued to — back Roman because I see how he works, and I know it’s gonna pay off, and I believe in him.”
Wilson’s rookie season was hampered by injuries, limiting him to only five snaps. In his sophomore year, he arrived in Pittsburgh prepared to contribute immediately, showing encouraging performances in OTAs, minicamps, training camp, and preseason. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers notably praised Wilson’s efforts early in the season.
Challenges in Translating Effort into On-Field Production
Despite strong offseason preparation and coaching praise, Wilson’s regular season output remained modest. He caught 12 passes for 166 yards and scored two touchdowns but struggled with a fumble in a crucial late-game moment against the Indianapolis Colts and occasionally showed miscommunication with Rodgers. The arrival of veteran receivers Adam Thielen and Marquez Valdes-Scantling further reduced Wilson’s opportunities.
Wilson’s continuing hustle did not go unnoticed internally. Former head coach Mike Tomlin commended Wilson for his relentless work ethic late in the season and anticipated the receiver would have a chance to prove himself in Week 17 against the Cleveland Browns. However, Wilson ended up participating in just nine offensive snaps before returning to a healthy scratch status for the playoffs.
Support From Teammates and the Importance of Continued Development
Wilson has faced growing doubts in his third NFL year, but Kuntz remains one of his staunchest supporters, insisting that persistence and work behind the scenes are critical.
“People think that ’cause the production wasn’t there, the development wasn’t there. They have no idea that he’s working on his routes. They’re working on his release, he’s working on his strength, he’s working on his hands. He’s working on everything every day developing,”
Kuntz emphasized.
Wilson’s strong work ethic and positive mindset have been evident throughout last offseason and into this year. His determination to improve despite limited game action demonstrates a resolve that could eventually surface during games, provided he receives more opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Wilson’s Path to Proving Himself
Roman Wilson stands at a critical juncture in his NFL career where his improvements in practice must translate into more substantial on-field production. Without tangible game impact, shedding the “bust” label attached to him will remain difficult despite his evident dedication, as seen through insights from teammates like Christian Kuntz. As Pittsburgh adjusts its offensive personnel under Mike McCarthy’s leadership, Wilson’s development and potential contribution will be important factors to monitor in the coming seasons.
