RomanWilson

Oct 12

The injuries at wide receiver had no impact on the playing time of Pat Freiermuth.

Pittsburgh has consistently used Darnell Washington more on early downs, Freiermuth more on third downs and the two together in 12 personnel. However, it did lead to a higher target rate, as the Steelers' three slot receivers combined for no receptions. Freiermuth is worth more consideration going forward if Roman Wilson’s injury is serious.

Oct 12

Michael Pittman Jr. was placed on injured reserve this past week, while two wide receivers for Pittsburgh couldn’t finish this game. Pittsburgh has used DK Metcalf and Pittman as its primary receivers, with Roman Wilson joining in 11 personnel when healthy. The Steelers put wide receiver Pittman Jr. on injured reserve on Saturday. The Steelers activated wide receiver Brandon Smith from the practice squad for this game on Saturday. Rather than Wilson taking on a larger role without Pittman, Germie Bernard became the every-down receiver, filling Pittman’s place. Not only did Wilson not see a larger role, but he was also rotated out more frequently in 11 personnel. Wilson has made several big catches this season, but he was also benched two weeks ago after a drop. On the first three drives, Metcalf and Bernard each played 19 of 20 snaps, Wilson nine and Ben Skowronek five. However, Skowronek suffered a calf injury and missed the rest of the game. This left Wilson on the field more consistently for the next two drives. He played 20 of 33 snaps over the first five possessions, but then he endured a hand injury and missed the rest of the game. This left Smith as the third wide receiver for the rest of the afternoon. Bernard had a big performance, catching six passes for 80 yards. Regardless of the health of Wilson and Skowronek, Bernard should be among the top waiver-wire targets, as he should be a full-time starter for Pittsburgh over the next three weeks. If he plays well enough, he should keep a starting job over the rest of the season.