The 2024 NFL Draft is officially underway, and the first round wrapped up with very few defenders and not even one single linebacker selected. NC State LB Payton Wilson has his sights set on the next level and is projected to hear his name called as the second and third rounds take place on Friday, April 26.
Wilson spent five years in the NC State Wolfpack, and his 2023 season earned the linebacker two of the highest awards in college football — the Bednarik Award, for the best defensive player in the nation, and the Butkus Award, for the best linebacker in the nation. He was also the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. In his final season, Wilson amassed 138 total tackles, 69 solo tackles, six defended passes, six sacks, and three interceptions.
Payton Wilson: Scouting Report
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein breaks down Wilson’s fantastic tape but raises legitimate concerns about his injury history and ability to stay healthy.
Wilson’s length and athletic profile could certainly push him up the board for some teams, but his history with injuries could tamp down his draft stock. He’s free-flowing in pursuit and is at his best as a run-and-hit hunter rather than a static defender faced with a downhill blocker. He has the burst to shoot downhill and make a tackle for loss but lacks the demeanor or play strength to consistently leverage run fits. Wilson will find himself near the football frequently when allowed to play freely and avoid the mess in the middle. He has third-down ability as a blitzer and is a talented cover man who can play zone or man coverage. Wilson has early starting potential but scheme fit and medical reports will play a big role in his evaluation.
Mock Draft landing spots
Field Yates’ pre-draft mock sent Wilson to the Packers with the No. 58 overall pick. Zierlein sees him headed to the Seahawks at No. 81 overall in the third round, and The Athletic’s Dane Brugler places Wilson with the Cardinals at No. 90 overall.