Payton Wilson is a promising NFL linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, drafted in 2024 with the 98th total pick. His athletic path began early, marked by standout achievements in high school football, wrestling, and lacrosse. Wilson excelled at N.C. State, recording impressive stats, including notable accolades like the Bednarik and Butkus awards. Coming from a family of athletes, he displays remarkable resilience, overcoming injuries to establish a solid foundation as a professional. Theres much more to uncover about his path and impact.
Early Life
Payton Wilson is a talented NFL player who exhibited his athletic abilities from a young age. During his childhood, he developed a passion for sports, excelling in multiple disciplines.
While attending Orange High School, he made a name for himself as an outside linebacker in football, amassing an impressive 266 tackles, 70 tackles for loss, and 24 sacks throughout his high school career.
In addition to football, Wilson highlighted his versatility as a multi-sport athlete, competing in wrestling where he won a state championship, and playing lacrosse. His outstanding high school performance earned him a spot in the prestigious U.S. Army All-American Game, further solidifying his status as one of the nation’s top prospects.
Wilson comes from a family with a strong athletic background, as his older brother Bryse is a professional pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, underscoring the family’s legacy of sporting excellence.
Family Life
Payton Wilson comes from a highly athletic family, with notable influence from his older brother, Bryse Wilson, who is a pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Wilson family has firsthand experience with the draft process through Bryse’s professional baseball experience, which has instilled resolve and resilience in Payton’s own athletic pursuits.
Growing up in this competitive environment, Payton has been shaped by the strong support of his family.
His athletic skill extends beyond just football and baseball; he also achieved success in wrestling, winning a state championship in high school, highlighting the family’s rich athletic heritage.
Career
Payton Wilson is a talented linebacker who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the tertiary round of the 2024 NFL Draft, selected with the 98th overall pick.
He exhibited his athleticism during his college career at N.C. State, where he amassed impressive statistics, including 266 tackles, 70 tackles for loss, and 24 sacks. His speed was highlighted at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he clocked a remarkable 4.43-second 40-yard dash.
Wilson’s college accolades include being named a primary All-ACC selection in 2020 and receiving the prestigious Bednarik and Butkus awards, emphasizing his status as one of the top linebackers when healthy.
Despite battling knee and shoulder injuries during his collegiate path, Wilson’s resolve and resilience have established him as a remarkable athlete in the NFL landscape.
Net Worth
Payton Wilson’s net worth is currently estimated at around $3 million, primarily derived from his rookie contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which is worth approximately $3 million over four years.
As he launches into his NFL career, supplementary income may come from endorsements, influenced by his performance on the field and his family’s connections in the sports industry.