Entering the 2024 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a number of draft needs that they needed to address. Unlike in 2023, the Steelers didn’t possess a full allotment of draft picks, and there were several positions which would be considered a glaring need on their roster.

With seven total picks, the following positions could be viewed as a priority entering the selection process: wide receiver, cornerback, safety and even inside linebacker. Those positions, and more, were positions of need to help the black-and-gold get to the next level in 2024. There have been numerous thoughts and debates regarding what the team will do in Round 3 of the NFL Draft.

When the dust settled, the Steelers selected Roman Wilson out of Michigan with their third pick in the draft.

Steelers select WR Roman Wilson, Michgan

— Dale Lolley (@dlolley_pgh) April 27, 2024

For some analysis of this selection, here is information from a scouting report on Wilson, this from NFL.com:

“Smooth strider with alarming speed once he touches top gear. Wilson primarily focused on attacking the intermediate and deep portions of the field, adding an explosive element to the Wolverines’ ground-and-pound approach. Wilson is an electrifying athlete, which should push his stock up, but he’ll need to learn to level up his skill getting from Point A to Point B as a route-runner to reach his potential. Wilson has good hands and can run after the catch down the field, but he’s not really a catch-and-go option underneath. He has the separation potential to make a quarterback’s life easier and figures to continue his ascension as a starting slot talent.”

Strengths

• Explosive speed to stretch the field and stress the coverage.
• Driving acceleration rockets him past man defenders.
• Much more sure-handed and natural as a pass-catcher in 2023.
• Defenders struggle to stay with him when play extends.
• Good post-catch acceleration on West Coast routes to hit big plays.
• Competitive and focused when catches become contested.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistent elusiveness to avoid route redirection at press or in space.
• Routes lack consistent leverage and salesmanship.
• Has a second gear but tends to one-speed his patterns.
• Needs to get better at quickly settling and presenting on zone throws.

What do you think of the pick? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to check out the Breaking News Podcast in the player below with a more detailed look on the draft pick: