"Put in the Dog Cage": Steelers Rookie Sends Message to Coach Mike Tomlin: "Give Me a Chance, I Will Fight for Every Catch"

Pittsburgh, PA – October 3, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter their bye week with more questions than answers, and much of the spotlight has shifted from the field to the decisions being made on the sidelines. Fans are beginning to voice their frustrations louder than ever.

The clamor isn’t about scheme or play-calling this time. Instead, the noise centers on a young wide receiver who many believe deserves a bigger role. With injuries thinning out the depth chart, supporters expected him to rise — but that hasn’t been the case.

That player is Roman Wilson, a third-round pick entering his second season. Despite flashing promise in training camp and preseason, Wilson has only two targets and one reception for seven yards this year. He’s logged just 20 percent of offensive snaps, leaving fans stunned by his lack of involvement.

The frustration grew after Calvin Austin’s injury, which seemed like the perfect chance for Wilson to step up. Instead, Mike Tomlin turned to Ben Skowronek, prized for his blocking, and Scotty Miller, who absorbed most of Austin’s reps. Wilson, once again, remained on the margins.

To many, it feels like Wilson has landed in the dreaded coach’s doghouse. “We just want to see the kid get his chance. Why draft him in the third round if he never plays?” one fan blasted on social media. The sentiment has been echoed across Pittsburgh, with Tomlin’s decision-making under fire.

Tomlin and his staff insist Wilson isn’t being punished, but the numbers tell a different story. Twenty-two snaps in Week 1 included his lone catch, but his role has since evaporated, making his sophomore slump even harder to ignore.

Amid the tension, a new voice has emerged. Rookie Roman Wilson – a wide receiver who caught attention during the preseason – boldly sent a message to head coach Mike Tomlin:

“I didn’t come here to sit on the sidelines and watch the team decline. I know I can make a difference. Give me a chance, I will fight for every catch, I will create separation on every route. I want to prove that I’m worthy of this jersey.”

Wilson declared with confidence, showing his desire to join the official roster in Week 6.

Wilson’s Impressive Track Record

• At Michigan (2024 season):

• Averaged nearly 5 receptions per game

• In preseason: Impressed with post-catch plays, consistently making a difference

Steelers’ Context With DK Metcalf currently being the most reliable target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, other receivers like Calvin Austin or George Pickens have yet to make a clear impact. Giving Wilson a chance is not only logical but also necessary to improve the offense.

Opportunity for a Turning Point The Steelers are at a critical crossroads. They need a new spark to lift morale and change the dynamics of the offense. If Wilson’s bold statement becomes reality, the Week 6 game against the Cleveland Browns could mark a turning point for both the rookie’s career and Pittsburgh’s season.