Payton Wilson, the Steelers' rising star in the middle of their defense, is poised to make a significant impact in his third NFL season. With a desire to be on the field every snap, Wilson is a player his coach, Mike McCarthy, values for his four-down capabilities. Last season, Wilson's defensive snaps increased by 49%, showcasing his growing importance to the team's success. However, despite this increased involvement, coaches still opted for other players over Wilson for over a third of the snaps. This raises questions about the team's strategy and Wilson's potential role as a leader. Wilson aims to become a more vocal leader, sharing the responsibility with his starting position mate, Patrick Queen, who is entering the final season of his contract. The Steelers' lack of inside linebacker signings and draft picks further emphasizes Wilson's opportunity to shine. With a unique injury history and a reputation for being a downhill tackler and playmaker, Wilson complements Queen well. As the Steelers' new defensive coordinator, Patrick Graham, shifts the off-ball linebacker profile towards smaller, more agile players, Wilson's athleticism and speed make him a key asset. The question remains: can Wilson prove himself as the face of the Steelers' defense and solidify his place in the team's future?
