Along with TJ Watt and Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson and Alex Highsmith are now cornerstones of the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ defensive identity as the franchise pushes into the 2025 NFL season. On offense, Pennsylvania’s own Will Howard can be the future franchise quarterback.
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Steelers' Will Howard drops back during his rookie minicamp in 2025.
With elite athleticism, relentless drive, and a regional connection that resonates with fans back home, these players are redefining what it means to succeed in defensive and offensive units in today’s NFL.
Payton Wilson’s Rise From Butkus Winner to NFL Enforcer
Wilson closed out his college career at NC State by winning the 2023 Butkus Award, the top honor for linebackers in the nation. His senior season saw him total 138 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks, while also recording 3 pass deflections and a pick-six — showcasing his coverage instincts.
The Steelers drafted him in the 3rd round (Pick 84) in the 2024 NFL Draft, instantly signaling their belief in his versatility and playmaking. At 6-foot-4 and 234 pounds, Wilson has the length and explosiveness that mirrors the ideal hybrid linebacker mold.
Alex Highsmith’s $68 Million Vote of Confidence
The Steelers committed to Highsmith long-term in 2023 with a five-year, $68 million contract, including $27.74 million guaranteed. That payday came off a 2022 breakout campaign in which Highsmith posted 14.5 sacks, 63 tackles, 5 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries.
Highsmith’s pressure rate and ability to win one-on-one matchups opposite Watt have given Pittsburgh arguably the best edge duo in the AFC North. His leadership and veteran presence now anchor the team’s front-seven identity.
Mike Tomlin’s Defensive Identity Reimagined
Head Coach Mike Tomlin has long valued fast, instinctive linebackers, and Wilson and Highsmith embody that philosophy. Tomlin’s scheme for 2025 leans heavily on hybrid fronts, disguised blitz packages, and linebackers who can cover tight ends and disrupt RPO concepts.
Wilson’s ability to play sideline-to-sideline allows the Steelers to stay versatile without subbing out for dime personnel, while Highsmith’s pass rush instincts thrive in Tomlin’s simulated pressure looks. Together, they offer schematic flexibility that is rare even among top-tier NFL defenses.
Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin’s Vision
Austin’s 2025 vision centers around pre-snap chaos and post-snap precision. With Wilson’s ability to drop into coverage or crash the A-gap and Highsmith’s bend around the edge, Austin can disguise intentions better than most coordinators.
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Steelers Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin directs his players during a 2022 minicamp practice at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
Austin has emphasized communication, and both linebackers are tasked with pre-snap alignment adjustments. They’re not just physical weapons — they’re mental anchors for the defense. Austin has called Wilson “an eraser” and described Highsmith as “the conductor of the pressure symphony.”
Camaraderie, Competition, and Locker Room Impact
Wilson and Highsmith lead by example. In practices, their competitive fire elevates the tempo and sets a standard. Highsmith has embraced his role as a mentor, helping Wilson break down film and improve technique against play-action looks. Wilson, in return, has brought infectious energy and tenacity to team drills.
Teammates have noted their relentless pursuit of perfection. Veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward called them “the most driven linebackers I’ve been around in years.” The leadership void left by the aging core is rapidly being filled by this rising duo.
Versatility as a Defensive Weapon
Highsmith can line up in wide-9, over tackle, or even drop into shallow zones — and he does it all at a high level. Wilson, meanwhile, has shown the ability to mirror slot receivers in zone matchups and punish running backs in the hole. Their range allows the Steelers to toggle between man and zone without changing personnel.
That means fewer tells for quarterbacks and more favorable matchups for Pittsburgh.
Will Howard’s Dream QB Mentors: Aaron Rodgers and Big Ben
Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard has found himself in a quarterback room surrounded by legends — and he’s soaking up every bit of wisdom. At his first official Steelers media availability, future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers addressed the excitement of mentoring Howard, like how he once mentored Jordan Love in Green Bay. For the rookie from West Chester, Pennsylvania, it’s a dream come true.
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Packers quarterback Jordan Love and former Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during a practice.
Howard had previously expressed hope of learning not only from Rodgers, but also from Steelers icon Ben Roethlisberger. That wish was fully realized as both veteran quarterbacks made it clear they’re invested in Howard’s growth. With mentorship from a four-time MVP and a two-time Super Bowl winner, Howard has an unprecedented opportunity to develop in elite company.
Coming off a standout college career, Howard transferred from Kansas State to Ohio State, where he immediately earned team captain honors. After an inconsistent start to the season, Howard elevated his game during the College Football Playoff, leading the Buckeyes to a national title. His final college stat line: 4,010 passing yards, 73% completion rate, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions — all career highs.
The Steelers capitalized on his rising draft stock by selecting him with the 185th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Now, under the guidance of Rodgers and Roethlisberger, Howard is being groomed to potentially lead the franchise in a future that looks increasingly quarterback-rich.
Some Pennsylvania sports betting experts and platforms with betting promos in PA consider Howard’s preseason performances worth tracking, especially for potential starts in late-regular season scenarios down the road, particularly if playoff positioning is secured or injuries occur.
Reshaping the Steelers’ Legacy
The Steelers’ franchise is synonymous with dominant linebacker play — from Jack Lambert to Greg Lloyd to James Harrison.
Wilson and Highsmith are building the next chapter of that tradition. They aren’t just good — they’re changing what Pittsburgh looks like on Sundays. The 2025 Steelers aren’t leaning on Rodgers or DK Metcalf. They’re letting the defense lead, and that leadership starts with them. This isn’t nostalgia — it’s evolution. A new identity is forming, one built on speed, violence, and execution at the linebacker level.
Steelers’ Success in 2025 and Beyond Hinges on Their Shoulders
If Pittsburgh is going to reclaim the AFC North and return to playoff prominence, it will be because Watt, Queen, Wilson and Alex Highsmith deliver weekly. Their health, consistency, and playmaking are no longer optional — they’re central to the team’s trajectory. The Steelers’ over/under win total of 9.5 sits heavily on their impact.
If the Steelers are going to be competitive beyond 2025 and make deep playoff runs, it will likely be because Howard reached his full potential while learning from Rodgers this upcoming season.
