Sidelined with an ankle injury since July 30, Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson has needed to prepare for the season in ways other than practice.
Film study has been Wilson’s primary focus.
“I watch a lot of film by myself, with coach Z [Zach Azzanni], trying to get better with my handwork, get a little more crafty,” Wilson told Steelers reporters on Thursday.
But the work doesn’t end there.
“I go home and watch film, watch receivers and try to emulate their game, try to emulate in my head and, whenever I get the opportunity, bring it out to the practice field.”
When asked who he’s been watching, Wilson didn’t hesitate.
“I’ve been watching a lot of Mike Evans. I just feel like his technique is very underrated. He’s played in the league and done so good for such a long time; why wouldn’t I want to be that guy.”
Wilson couldn’t be more right about Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans. Names like Justin Jefferson, Tyreek Hill, A.J. Brown and CeeDee Lamb are often mentioned when discussing the best in the game. But it’s five-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans who’s won a Super Bowl and is atop the active player leaderboard in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns.
The Steelers desperately need a guy who wants to be like Evans. Pittsburgh’s receiving corps has accounted for just 243 yards and one touchdown; its only of the season.
If only it were as simple as inserting Wilson into the lineup. He missed the majority of training camp, the entire preseason, and has only practiced fully twice since regular season practice kicked off on Sept. 2.
