Steelers camp report: Injury to rookie WR Roman Wilson mars 1st day of practice in pads

Rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson’s injury during the opening team practice period Tuesday put a damper on the Pittsburgh Steelers wearing pads for the first time during training camp.

Wilson, the Steelers’ third-round pick from Michigan, injured his ankle when he was tackled by cornerback Anthony Averett on a jet sweep that took place during the “seven shots” drill that opens the team portion of practice.

Wilson hobbled off the field, then he was taken to a cart and driven to the locker room for treatment.

“It was unfortunate,” coach Mike Tomlin said. “We’ll have more information regarding the length of his status in terms of how long he might be out.”

ESPN, citing unnamed sources, reported that Wilson is “week to week” with the injury.

Wilson was working with the second-team offense when the injury occurred.

Tight end Rodney Williams missed a second day of practice while recovering from an AC join sprain he sustained Saturday. Williams was not in uniform.

Quarterback Russell Wilson donned helmet for the first time in camp and handed off twice during team periods. Wilson also connected with tight end Connor Heyward on a deep pass during the 7-on-7 period. Wilson did not take part in team portions during the heat acclimation phase of camp.

“We’ll keep progressing with that throughout the week and moving forward,” Tomlin said, “obviously, with the mindset of no steps backward as we do so.”

The Steelers escaped the rain that eventually hit the area about half an hour after practice concluded.

Much to Tomlin’s dismay, as it turned out.

“I’ll take it however it comes, as long as it’s not lightning,” he said, “because we get an opportunity to work. If it was raining, then ball searching and security is an emphasis. We’re an outdoor sport. We play in a lot of circumstances, and I’m open to all of that in team development.”