A Steelers rookie making an impression at training camp.
Payton Wilson was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a potential impact linebacker. He’s looked well throughout training camp thus far.
With the 98th overall pick in the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected linebacker Payton Wilson in the hopes that he would have a significant effect. What about Wilson was there not to like? 4.43 is an astounding 40-yard speed, even for this era of quick, coverage-friendly NFL linebackers.
The rookies will be under close observation and the coaches’ critical gaze as training camp gets underway as they attempt to establish themselves with the Steelers. Wilson is expected to replace Patrick Queen, one of the top inside linebackers in the league, at the other inside linebacker position for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
At this early stage of camp, it is difficult to evaluate a linebacker or any other player. Pads are necessary for evaluation in order to see a player in their entirety, and they won’t be worn until Tuesday.
On the other hand, Wilson received compliments from head coach Mike Tomlin.
Wilson is “highly conditioned,” according to Tomlin. “I believe it begins there, and hustle and completion are the signs of it. And occasionally finishing strong puts you in a situation where you can [make plays]. As a result, we don’t ask the new guys a lot, but we do require that they show up prepared for work. He is extremely well-conditioned and seems to be in position in that sense as well.”
Wilson recently told the media that, in comparison to OTAs, he felt a significant difference at this time.
Because I wasn’t playing freely and didn’t know how to play defense, I was unable to be myself. I’m grateful to Coach [Aaron] Curry, Patrick Queen, and Elandon Roberts for relying on me, because that’s how quickly and fluidly I was able to move even yesterday and especially today. We took the entire month off to check in, make sure I was watching the film, and make sure they answered any questions I had,” Wilson stated.
