Roman Wilson, selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, continues the team’s tradition of drafting wide receivers beyond the first round. Renowned for his speed and agility, Wilson is already aiming to shake up a significant aspect of the franchise’s history: challenging the longstanding tradition of prohibiting players from donning the No. 1 jersey.
“I feel like, for me, the number 1 is special. I would love to wear it, but it would mean more to me if I got the opportunity to earn it,” Wilson shared on the “Steel Here” podcast. “Maybe one day they’ll change it.”
Wilson sported No. 1 during his college career, but that jersey is notably absent on the Steelers roster. The storied franchise has an unwritten rule about granting it, leaving many to believe that it is sacred.
The History Behind No. 1
The Steelers have never officially retired the No. 1 jersey, but some suggest it’s an homage to legendary kicker Gary Anderson, a member of the Steelers All-Time Team. Alternatively, others think the organization avoids assigning it to discourage individualistic behavior.
Regardless of the reason, it’s a difficult task to convince the team to grant it. Just ask fellow receiver George Pickens, who also sought the iconic number after wearing it at Georgia. “I tried to get the number one but I think it’s sacred or something like that,” Pickens revealed on “The Arthur Moats Experience With Deke” podcast.
3rd round pick Roman Wilson.#Steelers pic.twitter.com/YVBqy9E7QX
— BurghCreative (@Burghcreative__) April 29, 2024
Roman Wilson Follows George Pickens’ Lead
Fully aware of the roadblocks, Wilson didn’t even bother to ask. “I didn’t even ask because I knew if [George] Pickens wasn’t getting 1, then I wasn’t,” Wilson acknowledged. Despite the jersey setback, the Steelers announced Wilson will wear No. 10. Still, the Michigan standout remains determined to one day sport his cherished No. 1 again.
With a relatively thin wide receiver room beyond Pickens and Wilson, the rookie will have ample chances to showcase his talents and earn a top spot. If his career trajectory matches past Steelers wideouts drafted beyond the first round, such as Hines Ward and Antonio Brown, Wilson could potentially convince the organization to reconsider its unofficial policy.
For now, the rookie is focused on proving his worth on the field and making an impact from day one. Will Roman Wilson be the receiver to break tradition and become the Steelers’ No. 1? Only time will tell.
