NC State LB Payton Wilson 2024 NFL Draft Profile

Pros

• Length
• Limbs for days. Able to make tackles away from his body and crowd throwing lanes thanks to his frame
• Range
• A true sideline to sideline to sideline player with click and close to gap run angles
• Versatility
• Plays both stacked and edge linebacker with a variety of high-level plays displaying functional technique and physical skills

Cons

• Coverage
• Can be a matchup hunted in man coverage and looks uncomfortable as a zone-dropper
• Pursuit Angles
• Can overrun ball carriers or bring himself to unnecessary traffic
• NFL Fit
• Teams will have to decide if he’s better as an off-the-ball player or as a true edge rusher

Eval:

Wilson is an intriguing prospect thanks to his mixture of length, athleticism and versatility. His ability to play both stacked linebacker and edge pass rusher comes with a double-edged sword however, as some teams will view him as a Swiss Army knife, while others may question what his true position is but there’s no doubt that Wilson’s range, size and tenacity will intrigue teams.

Comp: Nick Herbig

Versatile college defender who has started his career as a designated pass rusher as he develops his game as a full-time edge.