The Steelers signed linebacker Payton Wilson, one of their third-round picks, to a four-year contract. Wilson, who played at North Carolina State, was chosen with the 98th overall choice.
Wilson appeared in 46 career games and recorded 402 tackles, including 202 solo stops. He finished his career with 15 sacks for 101 yards, seven interceptions, 20 passes defensed, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.
“He was a guy we had high on our board,” defensive coordinator Teryl Austin stated. “I like him as a football player. Very productive, speedy, and possesses excellent football instincts. Everything you desire from a football player.
We believed seeing him where he was and having the opportunity to get him was a wonderful thing, and we’re happy with where we’re at.
“He adds some speed to our defense. He adds some physicality to our defense. The capacity to cover males. That is what I look at.”
Wilson received the 2023 Butkus Award for best linebacker, as well as the Bednarik Award for best defensive player.
“My versatility speaks for itself,” Wilson explained. “I can play in the box and drop into coverage.
“Growing up watching the Pittsburgh Steelers defense, I modeled my play after them. Playing as hard, as fast, as physically demanding as possible. I’m so excited to meet everyone there and continue to improve my game.”
Wilson appeared in 12 games in 2023 and finished with a career-high 138 tackles, including 69 solo stops. He also recorded a career-high six sacks for a loss of 34 yards.
Wilson is no stranger to Pittsburgh, as his brother, Bryce Wilson, pitched for the Pirates in 2021-22.
“I came to a few games,” Wilson added. “It’s one of my favorite cities ever. Very familiar with the city. Also, I am well aware of how much Pittsburgh loves its professional sports teams. “I’m extremely excited.”
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