Steelers rookie LB Payton Wilson couldn't be in a 'better situation'

The Steelers drastically rebuilt their inside linebacker room over the past two years and capped it off with their third-round selection of NC State's Payton Wilson in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Wilson had a first-round grade by most draft experts, but his extensive medical history likely scared teams away. Pittsburgh finally stopped his fall at pick No. 98 and Wilson believes it couldn't be a better situation 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 said.

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.