Former NC State All-American Linebacker Payton Wilson didn’t disappoint in his Rookie season this year, making the Steelers look smart for drafting him in the 3rd round with the 97th overall pick, and the rest of the NFL teams look dumb for passing over him. The 2023 ACC Defensive Player of the Year has been named to 2024 All-Rookie Teams by numerous publications.
Wilson was 1 of 3 Linebackers to make CBS Sports’ All-Rookie team.
The thing about Wilson is that everybody knew he was a really good player coming into the draft. He was incredible in college.