Payton Wilson shines in Week 1 under Patrick Graham's scheme

In the Pittsburgh Steelers' 20–13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on September 10, linebacker Payton Wilson demonstrated his skills, heavily influenced by new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham's simplified system. This adjustment allowed Wilson to play faster and more instinctively than he had under Mike Tomlin's previous defensive approach. Analysts noted that Wilson's standout performance stemmed from streamlining assignments, enabling him to utilize his speed and tackling ability effectively. The Steelers' defense appears poised to benefit from these changes, which could make Wilson a key player going forward.

• 8:04 AMYahoo Sports — Why Patrick Graham's scheme unleashes Payton Wilson