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Pitt’s Wilson a surprise second-rounder
Most publications saw Wilson as a third-round choice -- at best -- and some even projected him as a fifth- or sixth-round pick.
But Chiefs coach Dick Vermeil saw something special in the versatile Wilson, who will line up at any number of positions for the defending AFC West champions, including fullback, slotback and tight end.
"I've been in the backfield before," said Wilson, 6-foot-2, 248 pounds. "Whatever I'm called upon to do, I try to do to the best of my abilities. Definitely there are some possibilities of me moving around and doing some different things."
Yesterday marked the first time three Pitt players were taken in the first two rounds since 1983, when Jimbo Covert, Tim Lewis and Dan Marino all went in the first round. Fitzgerald was a first-round selection (third overall) by the Arizona Cardinals and Spencer and Wilson followed in Round 2.
Wilson became the first Panthers tight end taken since Dave Moore went to Miami in 1992. He is the highest selection at the position since 1961, when the Chicago Bears nabbed Mike Ditka in the first round.
"I can't tell you how excited I am right now," Wilson said.
The Chiefs don't need immediate help at tight end with All-Pro Tony Gonzalez (71 catches, 10 touchdowns in 2003), but the organization felt Wilson was too versatile to pass up.
The Chiefs have only one pure fullback on the roster in Tony Richardson, which means Wilson could be used as a backup at that position, in addition to tight end. He'll likely get most of his playing time on special teams as a rookie.
"My expectations are to come down there and work hard and whatever happens, happens," he said. "I haven't really put any deep thought into that. I have put thought into coming there and being a workhorse."
Wilson, who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.62 seconds, amassed 88 career receptions for 1,431 yards with 15 touchdowns at Pitt, including a career-best 44 for 643 with nine scores last fall. He was one of three finalists for the Mackey Award as the nation's top tight end.
Asked if he failed to show his true potential at Pitt because he played in Fitzgerald's shadow, Wilson was quick with a response.
"Obviously, he was a big part of our offense," Wilson said. "I was also. It was great to have a Biletnikoff Award Winner beside me because he drew a lot of attention and allowed me to get open. I also drew some attention and allowed him to get open. I think we worked well together."
Now, Wilson has a chance to play with one of the league's top tight ends in Gonzalez.
"There's no question about it," Wilson said. "He's definitely a guy who after watching over the years is someone who has helped my game a lot. I look forward to working with him."
