Heading into Tuesday’s Pro Day, NC State linebacker Payton Wilson had the option to skip workouts after showcasing his skills at the NFL Combine. However, he chose to participate in various drills, displaying his enthusiasm for football. Wilson’s focus was on showcasing his movement and skills, aiming to solidify his position as a top linebacker prospect in the upcoming draft. Despite knowing the competition for the top spot, Wilson’s performance received positive feedback, especially in terms of his agility and movement on the field.
“Payton Wilson from NC State worked out at Pro Day despite strong Combine showing”
Payton Wilson from NC State did not rest on his laurels and decided to participate in various drills at Pro Day, despite having impressive numbers at the NFL Combine. He is aiming to be the first linebacker chosen in the upcoming draft and wants scouts to focus on his movement skills. Wilson, a North Carolina native and Carolina Panthers fan, plans to emulate a specific linebacker regardless of which team he ends up on.
Wilson believes that every linebacker should aim to emulate Luke Kuechly because he is considered one of the best to ever play in that position. Despite Kuechly’s career being cut short due to concussions, Wilson feels that if Kuechly had a longer career, there would be no doubt about him being the greatest linebacker in history.
Kuechly has transitioned from a hero to a mentor for Wilson, guiding him not just off the field, but also on it to help Wilson pursue his NFL aspirations. Wilson credits Kuechly’s advice on film analysis as a key factor in his performance this year, as Kuechly’s ability to predict plays with precision is unrivaled. Wilson is inspired by Kuechly’s instincts and skill, striving to replicate them as he considers Kuechly the best football player to ever grace the field.
In 2012, Kuechly was the first linebacker chosen in the NFL draft by the Panthers. While most predictions place Wilson as an early pick in the draft’s second day, recent mock drafts by NFL.com have even positioned Wilson in the first round.
