The Pittsburgh Steelers selected NC State linebacker Payton Wilson with the 98th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft on Friday, adding a potential Year 1 contributor in the third round.
Wilson, who turned 24 earlier this month, was incredibly productive with the Wolfpack, totaling 402 tackles (48 for loss), 15 sacks, 20 pass breakups and seven interceptions in 46 career games, including 36 starts. He was a unanimous All-American and won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker in 2023.
Wilson’s biggest concern is injuries, as he has had surgeries to address knee and shoulder issues. NFL Network reported Friday that Wilson does not have an ACL in one of his knees.
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‘The Beast’ breakdown
Wilson ranked No. 88 in Dane Brugler’s Top 300 big board. Here’s what Brugler had to say about him in his annual NFL Draft guide:
“Wilson’s medicals will be a key factor in his final grade, but he is a rangy and instinctive player who impacts the game in different ways, because of his effort and toughness. His four-down potential will separate him from most linebacker prospects.”
Nick Baumgardner grades the pick
A tackling machine with sideline-to-sideline speed (he ran a 4.43 40), Wilson made 402 tackles in his career and is one of the fastest and most instinctive ‘backers in this class. There are major injury concerns. He might not make it beyond his first contract (he’s also already 24), but Wilson (when healthy) is ready to play right now. Grade: B
Come back for more analysis on Wilson.
(Photo: Jim Dedmon / USA Today)
