NFL Combine

Ohio State WR Garrett Wilson Met with Steelers, Sees Diontae Johnson Comparison

Published

2 years ago

March 3, 2022

INDIANAPOLIS — Ohio State is known for churning out receivers like it is nothing. With a history of receivers in Pittsburgh as well as the first-round pick of Santonio Holmes, there is no doubt that Ohio State under Brian Hartline is continuing to produce some of the NFL’s best receivers.

Top receiver prospect Garrett Wilson has a chance to crack that list this year. With so much interest, things are flying by for the former Buckeye. The Steelers are one of the many teams showing interest in the star pass-catcher as well. Likely going in the first round, Wilson’s interview with the Steelers is noteworthy.

“I did have a formal with the Steelers yesterday, it went well,” Wilson said. “So like I said, I haven’t been focusing on any teams, but I’ve been talking to a lot of them and just taking all the opportunities.”

When Wilson talks about his game, however, he sees a specific player. That would be none other than Steelers receiver Diontae Johnson. With his crisp routes and flashes of creative yards after catch ability, Johnson is one of the most graceful receivers in the NFL. There is a similar poise and eloquence to the way Wilson plays the game of football. That is what Wilson sees in his game.

“Yeah, I mean, coming from Toledo, I think Diontae Johnson was someone I saw play, just watching TV, watching dudes in Ohio, he could really ball coming out (of college),” Wilson said. “I see a lot of myself in him.”

Wilson was able to meet with Mike Tomlin during his meeting. In the meeting, Tomlin made an impression on Wilson, who grew up knowing all about Tomlin.

“He’s a great dude,” Wilson said. “He’s been a face of the league since I can remember, since I started watching ball, and he’s done a great job. He seems like a player’s coach.”

Wilson will have to make it to 20 for the draft pick to even be a consideration. Moreover, while receiver is a need, it will be a surprise if the Steelers pick up Wilson over a quarterback, offensive lineman, or cornerback at this juncture.