Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson leads team in tackles through six weeks
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The gist
Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson has 55 combined tackles, eighth in the NFL and most on the team.
He is four tackles from second place and closing on a Steelers record.
Background
Payton Wilson is a Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker and former NC State linebacker who leads the team in tackles. Through six weeks of the 2026 season he ranks among the NFL's top tacklers, and he is within striking distance of moving higher in the league rankings. He benefits from a 17-game schedule, while James Farrior set his mark in 16 games; even over 16 games, Wilson's current average would produce approximately 147 tackles.
How it unfolded
- Oct 18, 2026Wilson recorded 11 tackles (seven solo) in the Steelers' 26-19 overtime win over the Buccaneers in Tampa, leading the team; he had the highest run defensive grade on the roster at 78.8 on 20 run snaps, limiting Bucky Irving to 46 rushing yards on 19 attempts.
- Oct 19, 2026Wilson spoke with the media ahead of the Steelers' Week 7 game against the Saints.
- Oct 20, 2026Wilson pointed out a key behind-the-scenes change that has led to a better Steelers defense.
- Oct 21, 2026Through six weeks Wilson had 55 combined tackles (30 solo), ranking eighth in the NFL and leading the Steelers, four tackles from second place; it was his third double-digit tackle game this season.
- Oct 24, 2026A Week 7 preview listed Wilson with 50 total tackles and 20 run stuffs ahead of the game against the Saints in Paris.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Athlon/Yahoo's Week 6 review said Wilson turned in one of his strongest performances of the season and that when he plays his best football, the entire defense benefits.
- Caution
- Athlon/Yahoo's Week 7 preview said Wilson's coverage metrics haven't been particularly strong, but the Steelers need continued progress and development from the young linebacker.