Steelers' Possible 2026 First-Round WR Gets Concerning Warning From Insider About Roman Wilson

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a completely different era now that Mike McCarthy is the head coach. McCarthy is returning to his hometown, the Steel City, with a mission to reclaim the franchise as a contender in playoff football. The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since the 2016 season, and McCarthy is determined to end that drought in his first year at the helm in 2026.

The 2026 NFL Draft represents a prime opportunity for Steelers General Manager Omar Khan and McCarthy to strengthen the roster. Pittsburgh has already made moves to improve its receiving corps, most notably acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts. With Pittman joining DK Metcalf, the Steelers are hoping to revitalize a passing attack that has struggled in recent years. The duo gives whoever is the Steelers quarterback for the 2026 season more explosive options, but the depth behind them remains thin. Roman Wilson, a younger receiver on the roster, has yet to earn significant opportunities.

Steelers insider Mark Kaboly spoke about the team’s wide receiver situation on 93.7 The Fan, noting that Pittsburgh is likely to address the position in the first round of the draft, selecting at 21st overall. Someone like Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State has been linked to the Steelers in multiple mock drafts. Kaboly emphasized that while the Steelers are expected to draft a receiver however, the path to meaningful playing time for a rookie may not be easy. McCarthy and Khan will have to balance developing new talent with integrating veterans who can make an immediate impact.

"I am assuming they are going to draft one in the first round," Kaboly said while speaking on 93.7 The Fan. "I would assume. I just don’t think that guy will be listed on the depth chart as number three straight out of training camp and into the season."

The 2026 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for Pittsburgh. With a new coaching staff, an improved receiving room, and the draft looming as a key roster-building tool, expectations are higher than they have been in years. 

If McCarthy and Khan can successfully blend veteran experience with fresh talent, the Steelers could finally return to the postseason and break their decade-long playoff win drought.

"I think maybe in October, depending on what round you are going," Kaboly said. "You’ve seen it before. Let bygones be bygones, baby… I just don’t feel, if you look at the history around the league, there aren’t a lot of guys who come in and start as a first-rounder. There are a couple of them who were really, really good right away… I just don’t think there would be a guy right now who could come in and push [Roman Wilson] out of that three spot as we sit here right now."

Steelers Seemingly Still Have Faith In Roman Wilson

The host of the show strongly disagreed with Kaboly, arguing that if the Steelers drafted a wide receiver at that spot, they could quickly push Wilson out of the No. 3 role. Pittsburgh is eager to add someone to the depth chart, but Kaboly reminded listeners that drafting a prospect doesn’t guarantee immediate results. 

Every rookie faces a learning curve in the NFL, and the Steelers have historically slowed that process under Mike Tomlin. With McCarthy now in charge, however, that approach could change, potentially giving new receivers a faster path to meaningful playing time. Kaboly made it clear though, the Steelers have not given up on Wilson yet.

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