NC State's Payton Wilson won't play in Pop-Tarts Bowl

Raleigh, N.C. — NC State linebacker Payton Wilson has decided not to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Dec. 28.

Wilson sent out a statement on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday morning explaining his decision.

"Playing football at NC State and training and competing with my teammates has been an experience that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Now it's time for me to start to prepare for the next chapter of my football career. After discussions with my family and advisors, I have made the difficult decision to opt out of playing in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. I will be there on Dec. 28 to support my brothers and hopefully bring home a victory."

Wilson, an Orange High School graduate, earned a litany of accolades in his fifth collegiate season as he won the Dick Butkus Award as the top linebacker in the sport and the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation's best overall defensive player. Wilson had his most productive season in 2023, earning a team-high 138 tackles, six sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss. He also logged three interceptions and was the unanimous choice as the ACC's top defensive player.

The bowl features the 18th-ranked Wolfpack and No. 25 Kansas State at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Kickoff is set for 5:45 p.m.

Wilson joins a number of State players sitting out the game, including C.J. Clark, Michael Allen and Terrell Timmons Jr. (transfer portal). Kansas State will be missing several starters including quarterback Will Howard, who entered the transfer portal.