Most draft analysts gave steelers key player a first-round grade
Over the last two years, the Steelers have substantially rebuilt their inside linebacker room, culminating with their third-round pick of NC State’s Payton Wilson in the 2024 NFL Draft.Most draft analysts gave Wilson a first-round grade, but his significant medical history likely scared clubs away. Pittsburgh eventually halted his decline at selection No. 98, and Wilson believes the situation could not be better for him.
“What better situation can I have to come in and compete with some of the best in the game as well as learn from them,” Wilson stated.
Wilson is joining a stacked inside linebacker room that includes veterans Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb.
As a result, Wilson won’t need to be rushed into the starting lineup, something that could pay big dividends in the long run.
“As soon as I got drafted, they all reached out to me,” Wilson added. “Learning from these guys is going to be amazing. Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts, Cole Holcomb, guys that have really proven themselves in the NFL.”
If Wilson can stay healthy, which he has the past two seasons, he may be one of the biggest steals of the draft.
In 2023, Wilson won the Chuck Bednarik Award as the top defender in the country and the Butkus Award as the nation’s best linebacker after registering 138 total tackles, six sacks, one forced fumble, three interceptions and six passes defensed.
He already began calling the defense on the first day of rookie minicamp as well.
Wilson’s play may do the talking and force the Steelers into playing him sooner than expected this season. However, few situations, if any, like Pittsburgh’s can set Wilson up for long-term success.
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