“Tim Benz: Steelers Refuse to Obey the Odds, Transform Inside Linebacker Sorrow…Read more
“Tim Benz: Steelers Overcome Inside Linebacker Challenges”
Pittsburgh Steelers‘ draft pick Payton Wilson is already 24 years old, having spent six years at NC State. After redshirting in 2018, he played parts of the next five seasons with the Wolfpack.
Wilson’s experience has given him a level of polish and perspective uncommon in most rookies. This was clear during last week’s minicamp when he was asked about the differences in coaching styles between the NFL and college.
“In college, coaches have to work around deficiencies,” Wilson explained. “But here in the NFL, there aren’t any deficiencies. The trust and skillset on the field allow them to do that. In college, if a player goes down, you can’t just replace him easily; you have to work with what you have and adjust accordingly. It’s different from what I’ve seen here.”
Wilson’s observation highlights a key difference: in college, backups might not have the physical or tactical readiness required, whereas in the NFL, teams can bring in a capable replacement.
Unfortunately for the Steelers, the inside linebacker position has been a challenge since Ryan Shazier’s career-ending spine injury in 2017. The team has struggled to find consistency, dealing with injuries (Cole Holcomb, Kwon Alexander), poor draft choices (Devin Bush), and underwhelming veteran acquisitions (Jon Bostic, Myles Jack, Joe Schobert, Avery Williamson, Mark Barron).
This year, with Wilson’s addition, the Steelers hope to turn a corner. Along with drafting Wilson, who won the 2023 Butkus Award for the nation’s best linebacker, the Steelers signed Pro Bowler Patrick Queen from the Ravens. Elandon Roberts has proven to be more than just a run-stopper, and Holcomb may return by training camp after a severe leg injury. Mark Robinson remains a dynamic depth option.
“Our linebackers’ strength is their versatility,” ILBs coach Aaron Curry said. “Everyone can do a bit of everything. We’re preparing guys to handle any role we assign them.”
The Steelers have invested $41 million over three years in Queen to be an every-down, versatile linebacker who can blitz, cover, and stop the run. If Holcomb can return to form, he could also be a significant contributor.
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