The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense is gearing up to be one of the NFL’s elite units in 2025, even as their offense, now led by quarterback Russell Wilson (not Aaron Rodgers, who’s still with the Jets, despite some confusion in earlier reports), works to find its footing. At the core of this defensive strength is linebacker Patrick Queen, who’s making waves with his bold praise for young teammate Payton Wilson, a rising star with the potential to transform Pittsburgh’s already formidable unit.
A Dynamic Duo with T.J. Watt
The Steelers’ defense is built on star power, and it all starts with T.J. Watt, a seven-time Pro Bowler who led the NFL with 19 sacks in 2023 and boasts 96.5 career sacks at just 30 years old. Teaming up with Watt is Patrick Queen, a free-agent signing from the Baltimore Ravens, where he racked up 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and an interception last season. Together, they form one of the league’s most fearsome linebacker tandems in Mike Tomlin’s 3-4 scheme. Queen’s veteran presence and playmaking ability are already elevating the group, and he’s taken a particular interest in mentoring the team’s young talent.
Payton Wilson: A Star in the Making
Payton Wilson, a 2024 third-round pick from North Carolina State, is the Steelers’ other starting inside linebacker—and Queen is all in on his potential. “I think Payton got, like, a certain swagger to him that you just know he’s different,” Queen recently said. “Once he learns how to have that confidence fully, he’ll know there’s nobody in this league that can mess with him.” Queen thinks Wilson, who’s only 24, has “another level, maybe two levels” to reach, which could make him a household name. Steelers fans on X are echoing this excitement, with many posting about Wilson’s standout moments in training camp, like his knack for making big plays in drills.
From College Standout to NFL Prospect
Wilson’s rookie season showed promise, even in a limited role. He recorded 78 tackles (49 solo), three tackles for loss, and two passes defended in just four starts last year, with significant time on special teams. In the Steelers’ playoff loss to the Ravens, he added six tackles and a tackle for loss. His college career at NC State was electric: he won the Chuck Bednarik Award for the nation’s top defensive player, the Butkus Award for best linebacker, and the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in his senior year. Despite injury concerns that dropped him to the third round, the Steelers saw a steal, and Coach Mike Tomlin has been impressed with his growth, especially his instincts and speed.
A Loaded Defense Ready to Dominate
The Steelers’ defense isn’t just about Watt, Queen, and Wilson. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr., a 2023 second-round pick, had 43 tackles and 10 passes defended as a rookie, while safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, a three-time Pro Bowler, has 19 career interceptions in his prime at age 28. Last season, Pittsburgh’s defense ranked eighth in points allowed, giving up just 19.1 points per game. With Wilson expected to take on a bigger role, many believe this unit could crack the top five in 2025. Social media posts on X have been buzzing with clips of Wilson’s athletic plays in camp, fueling optimism about his breakout potential.
Looking Ahead for the Steelers
While the Steelers may not be Super Bowl favorites just yet, their defense has the talent to make a deep playoff run. With veterans like Watt and Queen guiding young stars like Wilson and Porter, Pittsburgh’s got a recipe for success. If Wilson’s swagger and skills live up to Queen’s hype, he could become the next great linebacker in Steelers history. What do you think about Wilson’s chances this season? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s get ready for some hard-hitting football!