Steelers rookie WR carted off practice field

The Steelers began their Tuesday with the surprising release of wide receiver Marquez Callaway. It's a move that they may soon want to take back.

During Pittsburgh's first padded practice of training camp, rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson suffered an ankle injury and was seen being carted off the field.

It was unfortunate timing, as the 23-year-old was just starting to hit his stride after a bit of a bumpy start during OTAs and mandatory minicamp.

In fact, he was coming off arguably his best practice yet on Sunday when he had a couple of nice catches, including a deep fade over rising rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop.

It is unknown how long Wilson's injury could keep him sidelined. Head coach Mike Tomlin said he hopes to learn more after practice.

"It was unfortunate that we had an injury today," Tomlin said . "Roman hurt his ankle on a tackle, and so we'll have more information regarding the length of his status in terms of how long he might be out."

The Steelers are hoping Wilson's injury is minor, as he was drafted in the third round (No. 84) of the 2024 NFL Draft to help replicate the production of wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who was traded to the Carolina Panthers in March.

That already won't be an easy task, as Johnson amassed 391 catches for 4,363 yards and 25 touchdowns the past five years.

With Wilson out, it would be even more difficult. That's why Pittsburgh may look to reunite with Callaway or bring in another playmaker elsewhere.

Last week, general manager Omar Khan said " there's nothing going on right now " in terms of trade talks, but that could quickly change, depending on the severity of Wilson's injury.

In the meantime, the Steelers will lean on veterans George Pickens, Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III, Scotty Miller and Quez Watkins to lead their wide receiver room.

Wilson registered 48 catches for 789 yards and 12 touchdowns in his final year at Michigan.

All quotations obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted.