RK Payton Wilson Just Made NFL HISTORY With Jaw-Dropping Speed — Leaving Fans and Analysts Stunned
Payton Wilson, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ breakout linebacker, did during the team’s Week 4 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, creating a new standard for speed that has stunned both fans and analysts alike.
With 22.48 mph clocked on Next Gen Stats, Wilson’s speed on a critical play late in the game shattered the previous record for the fastest speed ever recorded by a linebacker. The jaw-dropping moment came during a blown coverage by safety
Chuck Clark, where Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison appeared to be on his way to a sure touchdown. Addison sprinted down the field, but Wilson — who had been trailing — turned on the jets and gave chase, catching Addison 81 yards later at the one-yard line.
The tackle prevented a potential game-winning touchdown for the Vikings and forced them to burn valuable time with four more plays, allowing the Steelers to maintain control. While the tackle was a huge play in terms of the game’s outcome, it was Wilson’s speed that stole the spotlight — as it broke a 9-year record previously held by other NFL speedsters.
A Speed That Defies Expectations
Wilson’s impressive speed isn’t just a feat for a linebacker — it places him among the NFL’s elite players, regardless of position. His 22.48 mph clocking is one of the fastest speeds ever recorded, placing him among the top 10 fastest players in NFL history. The NFL’s all-time speed leader is
Tyreek Hill, who reached 23.24 mph in 2016, but Wilson’s performance places him squarely in the company of the league’s most legendary sprinters.
What’s more impressive is that Wilson isn’t a cornerback or a wide receiver — he’s a 6-foot-4, 240-pound linebacker. Speed like that, especially from a player of his size, is a rarity. But Wilson’s determination to make the play, his relentless pursuit, and his ability to maintain top speed for such a long distance highlight the unique skill set that has now elevated him into the conversation of the league’s most electrifying players.
A Historic Moment for the Steelers’ Defense
For the Steelers, Wilson’s record-setting performance isn’t just a moment of individual glory — it’s a testament to the strength of their defense.
Head coach Mike Tomlin has always prioritized hard-hitting, relentless defensive play, and Wilson’s display of speed only emphasizes the aggressive, fast-paced style of play that has defined Pittsburgh’s defense for decades.
But it’s not just about physical talent. Wilson’s awareness and discipline on the field were equally impressive. Despite his extraordinary speed, he didn’t rush blindly — he kept his focus on Addison and tracked him every step of the way, making the critical tackle when it mattered most. This combination of physical gifts and mental discipline is what makes Wilson one of the most promising young linebackers in the NFL today.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Payton Wilson
With the Steelers off to a solid start in the 2025 season, Payton Wilson’s incredible performance in Week 4 has the potential to be a defining moment for both his career and the team’s defense. His ability to be a difference-maker in high-pressure situations has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
While it’s early in the season, Wilson’s speed and playmaking ability are likely to continue to propel him to the forefront of NFL conversations. With 3 sacks, 10 pressures
, and a growing reputation as one of the fastest players in the league, Wilson has firmly established himself as a future leader of Pittsburgh’s defense.
If this Week 4 performance is any indication, Payton Wilson isn’t just a rising star — he’s on his way to becoming one of the most feared linebackers in the NFL.
