Payton Wilson may have flown under the radar as a rookie, but don’t expect him to stay quiet much longer. Drafted in the third round out of NC State, Wilson entered the NFL with an elite college résumé and a motor that never stops. Despite limited opportunities in his debut season, he showcased his potential in ways that have the Pittsburgh Steelers and their fans buzzing about what’s to come.
A Rookie Year to Remember
In 2024, Wilson made the most of his opportunities, finishing with an impressive 78 total tackles. What’s even more remarkable is that he achieved this while starting just four games and playing only 45% of the defensive snaps. His knack for finding the ball carrier and his sideline-to-sideline range repeatedly flashed, making it clear that the Steelers may have found a gem in the third round.
“Payton’s instincts and effort jump off the tape,” said head coach Mike Tomlin. “For a rookie to come in and make that kind of impact in limited snaps, it speaks to his preparation and desire to be great.”
A Golden Opportunity
The Steelers’ linebacker corps is undergoing a transition. With veteran Elandon Roberts departing in the offseason, a starting spot alongside Patrick Queen is up for grabs. The team is eager to inject youth and speed into the heart of their defense, and Wilson appears to be the perfect candidate to step up.
His main competition in training camp will be Malik Harrison and Cole Holcomb, who is working his way back from injury. While Harrison brings experience and physicality, Wilson’s athleticism and football IQ could set him apart. The Steelers’ defensive scheme thrives on versatility, and Wilson’s ability to drop into coverage, sniff out screens, and blitz effectively aligns perfectly with their philosophy.
The Path to a Starting Role
For Wilson, the 2025 preseason will be critical. His goal will be to prove he can handle the mental and physical demands of a full-time starting role. If he can demonstrate consistency and outshine his competition in camp, he’ll not only secure a starting spot but also solidify his status as a key piece of Pittsburgh’s defensive future.
Fans should also expect to see an uptick in Wilson’s leadership on and off the field. Known for his vocal presence and relentless work ethic at NC State, Wilson has already earned the respect of his teammates. “He’s one of those guys who’s always putting in the work,” said veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. “It’s contagious.”
A Star in the Making
Wilson’s combination of talent, opportunity, and determination makes him a player to watch in 2025. If his rookie season is any indication, he’s just scratching the surface of what he can do at the NFL level. With a starting job within reach and the Steelers’ defense looking to reclaim its dominance, Payton Wilson could be the breakout star that takes Pittsburgh to the next level.
Don’t be surprised if Wilson’s name becomes a staple in highlight reels and Pro Bowl conversations. The Steelers took a chance on him in the draft, and it’s looking more and more like a bet that will pay off in a big way.