Pittsburgh Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly expressed optimism about inside linebackers Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen ahead of the 2026 season. He attributed potential strong performances to financial motivations during a recent radio appearance.
Kaboly spoke on the Friday episode of his Kaboly + Mack show. He noted Wilson's limited prior playing time and the team's new defensive scheme, adding that the upcoming season represents Wilson's money year.
"Money year talks, brother," Kaboly said. "If he wants to get paid, they tend to show up money year." The comments extend similarly to Queen, who enters unrestricted free agency in March.
Both players must improve consistency and run defense. Kaboly emphasized that success depends heavily on the defensive line, where second-year players Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black are expected to progress alongside veteran Sebastian Joseph-Day.
The unit faces an early test in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons and running back Bijan Robinson.
