Payton Wilson

Wilson had an impressive rookie campaign, totaling 78 tackles with an interception, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. That's even more impressive considering that he worked primarily as Pittsburgh's third inside linebacker, spelling Elandon Roberts in passing situations. The Steelers saw enough from him in those stints to let Roberts depart in free agency, while replacing him with Malik Harrison - primarily a special-teams contributor throughout his career. That sets Wilson up for an expanded role in 2025 after playing more than 50 percent of defensive snaps in only six of 16 games as a rookie. He isn't likely to vault into the elite tier at the position, but he is a top breakout candidate.