Steelers’ Payton Wilson Changed the Game in Week 7

Wilson finished the game with eight tackles, two run stuffs, and just 29 yards allowed in coverage. However, none of those numbers carried more weight than the critical play he made in the third quarter. The Saints opened the second half with possession and marched down the field, consuming nearly half of the quarter’s game clock.

Deep in Pittsburgh territory, Saints quarterback Tyler Shough threw a pass intended for Chris Olave. However, he failed to see Wilson, who intercepted the pass and returned it 18 yards. Wilson’s takeaway abruptly ended an impressive New Orleans drive and prevented the Saints from taking the lead.

The Steelers held a 13-10 advantage at the time, and New Orleans had a chance to at least tie the game. With Pittsburgh ultimately winning 16-10, Wilson’s interception proved to be a massive difference-maker.

Wilson appears to be putting everything together in his third NFL season, and his interception was arguably the play of the game. His performance against the Saints represents another milestone in what has become an impressive 2026 campaign.

Wilson Is Having His Best Season

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Wilson earned a career-high 90.6 coverage grade on Sunday. With 58 tackles, 22 run stuffs, five pressures, and an interception through Week 7, it is easy to see why he is putting together the best season of his career.

Wilson is also on pace to shatter his previous career high in run stuffs, highlighting his impact against the run. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses in multiple ways has made him an increasingly valuable piece of Pittsburgh’s defense.

Of course, Wilson’s season has not been perfect. He has struggled in pass coverage in a few notable games, and he still has room to improve in that area. However, few off-ball linebackers consistently excel in coverage every week. Wilson has continued to elevate his overall game, and the Steelers’ defensive performance reflects that progress.

Following Sunday’s Week 7 games, Pittsburgh ranked seventh in defensive EPA at -0.041 and eighth in defensive success rate at 41.9%.

Wilson is a significant part of that success. His growing ability to make plays against the run, contribute in coverage, and create turnovers gives Pittsburgh’s defense another valuable weapon..