One name drawing attention as a potential early chapter of a delayed breakout is linebacker Payton Wilson. Drafted in the third round, 98th overall, in the 2024 NFL Draft, Wilson arrived in Pittsburgh with a reputation as a tackling machine from NC State. Across four college seasons, he amassed 402 combined tackles, signaling the type of relentless pursuit that can fuel a productive pro career in the Steelers’ scheme. Yet through his first two NFL seasons, Wilson has not yet matched that expectation.
Entering his third year, Wilson faces a pivotal season for his development. In 2025, he led the team with 126 tackles, adding six tackles for loss, two sacks, two pass breakups, and an interception in 17 games (four starts). The challenge for him has not been run support; rather, it has been his effectiveness in pass coverage. Evaluators have flagged this area as the most significant barrier to a true breakout. In a league increasingly driven by versatile, multi-role linebackers who can contribute in both run defense and coverage, Wilson’s ability to expand his repertoire will be critical.
Pro Football Focus notes that while Wilson logged the majority of his snaps in the box, he also spent a notable portion of time at slot cornerback, a testament to the team’s efforts to maximize his athleticism. However, his targeted results last season included two touchdowns allowed and a 104.7 passer rating when targeted, metrics that highlight why the coaching staff and fan base remain cautiously optimistic about his ceiling. Achieving consistency in pass coverage could unlock a more prominent role and greater trust in third-down and sub-package situations.
The linebacker position, in general, has been identified as a potential area of concern for the Steelers heading into the 2026 season. Analysts have pointed to the depth and consistency behind the starting trio as a potential weakness. This is not a problem unique to Wilson; it reflects broader questions about the team’s ability to sustain strong play at linebacker across multiple packages and situations.
Wilson’s teammate Patrick Queen has also faced scrutiny regarding his role and performance. With Queen and Wilson as the starting pair, some observers worry about the Steelers’ ability to stop opponents consistently in the running game, given Pittsburgh’s 2024 run-stopping metrics. Queen, who was a regular on the field, received mixed evaluations from advanced metrics and grading services, adding to the conversation about how the Steelers manage their linebacker corps.
Despite the pessimistic notes, there remains a sense of potential for Wilson. Projections suggest that a Year 3 jump is within reach if he can translate his on-field instincts into more polished coverage and decision-making in space. The Steelers will need him to become a true every-down linebacker capable of handling both run-and-pass responsibilities, especially as the defense evolves to meet modern offensive schemes.
The situation emphasizes a broader organizational challenge: maximizing the value of inserted talent through development and scheme fit. If Wilson can elevate his game in pass coverage and remain a reliable tackler in the box, the Steelers’ linebacker group could stabilize and grow more confident in multiple formations. If not, the narrative around the team’s recent investment at the position could intensify, prompting ongoing questions about how the franchise builds and sustains elite defensive units.
As the club continually assesses its options, the path for Wilson involves continued growth, increased confidence, and a commitment to expanding his role beyond traditional run-stopping duties. The hope is that he can become a more complete defender who contributes in all phases of the game, helping Pittsburgh maintain its defensive identity while addressing the evolving demands of the NFL.
