Steelers' Payton Wilson Takes Massive Slap To The Face: "That Guy Isn't On The Roster Right Now"

The Pittsburgh Steelers own the 2026 NFL Draft. The city is hosting the event, and the Steelers currently have more draft capital than any other organization in the league as the franchise has 12 selections. Pittsburgh is going to have to execute on these picks, while also finding a way to trade some of them away for capital in 2027. Making 12 selections would be irresponsible and a complete waste, as there aren't many teams in the NFL that just have 12 roster spots available for rookies. Meanwhile, the 2027 draft is coveted and Pittsburgh must gain more capital for that event.

It is less clear than ever what Pittsburgh's plans might be in the event, especially with the team's first-round pick. The Steelers will be selecting 21st overall, and it seems like the best way to go would be picking a wide receiver, offensive lineman, or safety. However, there are other needs on the roster that must be addressed later on in the event. The defensive line could use some more depth, as could the secondary as a whole. Inside linebacker is another area that should be considered, as the team needs an upgrade over Malik Harrison, and Patrick Queen is entering the final year of his deal.

NFL analyst Ben Solak recently published an article for ESPN discussing the perfect draft scenarios for every team in the league, and he mentioned the idea that the Steelers need an inside linebacker to eventually replace Queen.

"Don't sleep on a linebacker pick either," Solak wrote. "Patrick Queen is only 27, but he's approaching the final year of his deal and was shaky last season. The Steelers need his potential replacement, and that guy isn't on the roster right now."

It hasn't been a secret that the 2026 season is probably going to be Queen's last year in Pittsburgh, and drafting an inside linebacker makes sense, but Solak seemingly discounted Payton Wilson's presence on this roster. Yes, the young linebacker has struggled defending the run so far in his career, but he can certainly become a three-down linebacker if he works at it. He has made splash plays throughout his career while playing situationally, and the team would benefit by finding a way to get him on the field more.

Wilson has played mainly in passing situations and long yardage scenarios, and that is due to his ability to cover in the passing game. He is a pure athlete that excels in this area, but he does have to get better at defending the run. This includes completing tackles and fighting through blocks. If a linebacker cannot fight through blocks, then lanes will open up for the ballcarrier, and that is when the Steelers would get gashed.

It would be nice to see the Steelers try to work Wilson into this role a little bit during the 2026 season, and hopefully the young defender will show some improvement. However, there is no denying that selecting an inside linebacker at some point would be a smart decision.

Steelers Have Shown Significant Interest In Inside Linebacker's During The Pre-Draft Process

The Steelers usually like to pick guys that the team has grown familiar with through the NFL Scouting Combine, Pro Days, and pre-draft visits. The Steelers weren't very active on the Pro Day circuit, but the team did have five inside linebackers in the building for a pre-draft visit. These players included near-Heisman finalist Jacob Rodriguez out of Texas Tech, Kyle Louis, Jack Kelly, Harold Perkins Jr., and Jaden Dugger. 

None of these players will be taken with the 21st overall pick, and the only inside linebacker that is a lock to go in the first round is Sonny Styles. Unless Pittsburgh can trade up for him, it seems like any inside linebacker selection will be happening on Day 2 or 3 of the event.

What do you think about the Steelers not considering Wilson to be an option to replace Queen? Let me know on X, @brogannoey!

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