The Pittsburgh Steelers have a promising rookie in their linebackers room in NC State product and 2024 third-round pick , Payton Wilson.
The problem is Wilson may not even see the field at a high volume, as Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts are the projected starters. Cole Holcomb, who would also be in the running, may not be ready for the start of the season.
Despite these concerns, CBS Sports analyst Chris Trapasso is projecting Wilson as a member of his All-Rookie Team. Adding to that, he thinks it might not be long before Wilson is one of the better players at his position in the NFL.
"Wilson with the Steelers was a match made in football heaven," Trapasso wrote. "If he can stay healthy, he'll be a Pro Bowl type by his second or third season in the NFL."
While Wilson doesn't figure to grab a starting role out of training camp, he could still see the field a decent amount in his first season. But that will likely depend on the status of Holcomb, who is working his way back from a serious knee injury.
If Wilson is able to find a sizeable amount of playing time, it isn't far-fetched to think he can make an impact in Year 1. The third-round pick displayed impressive stats at the NFL Combine, running a 4.43 40-yard dash and a 34.5-inch vertical.
