Wilson was scratched with a knee injury in last week’s loss to the Steelers and has now been ruled out for the season. The veteran linebacker amassed 100-plus tackles for the fourth straight season, totaling 104 tackles, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and two TFLs. Statistically speaking, 2024 was a down year for Wilson, but his 72.3 defensive grade, per PFF, was the second-highest grade of his career.

Wilson, Cincy’s leading tackler, did not practice at all this week before being given the questionable tag. Wilson has two forced fumbles, as many recovered fumbles, and a pair of TFLs this year. With Wilson and defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins out, the Bengals are going to be particularly susceptible to Pittsburgh’s running attack, setting both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren up for good games this week.

The new deal averages $11.2 million over the first two years, making Wilson the league’s sixth highest paid inside linebacker. Wilson is a playmaker (seven career interceptions) and the leader of the Bengals defense, posting back-to-back 100 tackle seasons while playing through injuries. With Wilson signed, Cincy can now turn its attention to locking up QB Joe Burrow.

He popped up on the injury report on Friday and did not practice. It's hard to speculate on an illness but generally players will play through them on Sundays if they can. The backup plan at every-down linebacker would be Akeem Davis-Gaither.