Wilson, who played college football at North Carolina State, was selected with the 98th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Having played in 46 career games, Wilson has an impressive track record with 402 tackles, including 202 solo stops. He has also showcased his versatility on the field with 15 career sacks for a loss of 101 yards, seven interceptions, 20 passes defensed, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.

Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin expressed his excitement about the signing, stating that Wilson was a player they valued highly and admired for his productivity, speed, and football instincts. Austin believes Wilson's addition will bring speed, physicality, and the ability to cover opponents to the Steelers' defense, enhancing their overall performance.

Wilson's exceptional performance on the field earned him prestigious accolades, as he was awarded the 2023 Butkus Award, presented to the nation's top linebacker, and the Bednarik Award, presented to the nation's top defensive player.

Speaking about his own abilities, Wilson emphasized his versatility, highlighting his ability to play in the box and drop into coverage. As a player who grew up watching and modeling his game after the Pittsburgh Steelers' hard, fast, and physical style of defense, Wilson is thrilled to join the team and elevate his skills further.

In 2023, Wilson played in 12 games and delivered his best season to date, recording a career-high 138 tackles, including 69 solo stops. He also achieved a personal best with six sacks for a loss of 34 yards, proving his impact on the field.

Interestingly, Wilson is no stranger to the city of Pittsburgh, as his brother Bryce Wilson was a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2021-22. Wilson expressed his familiarity with the city and his excitement about joining a professional sports community that deeply supports their teams.

With Payton Wilson joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, fans can expect an infusion of talent and skill to further strengthen the team's defense. Wilson's combination of productivity, versatility, and passion for the game makes him a valuable addition to the renowned franchise, and his presence is sure to leave a lasting impact in the upcoming seasons.