Benton now highest-paid DL in Steelers history
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- Keeanu Benton agreed to a four-year, $72 million extension with the Steelers, with an $18 million annual value that makes him the highest-paid defensive lineman in team history.
- Benton posted career highs of 5.5 sacks and 51 tackles last season after being one of the Steelers' two second-round picks in the 2023 draft.
- Patrick Graham, the Steelers' new defensive coordinator, is expected to deploy Benton as a defensive end rather than his previous role as a nose tackle under the prior coaching regime.
- Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington, fellow 2023 Steelers draft picks, also received lucrative extensions this offseason, with cornerback Joey Porter Jr. — the team's other 2023 second-round selection — also in line for a new deal.
- Porter Jr. has not practiced in training camp after being placed on the physically unable to perform list due to an aggravated back injury suffered during the team's mobility workout on report day.
Why it matters: The Steelers are locking in their 2023 draft class early, with Benton becoming the franchise's highest-paid defensive lineman at $18 million annually. The positional switch from nose tackle to defensive end under new coordinator Patrick Graham signals a scheme overhaul designed to maximize Benton's pass-rush upside — the 5.5 sacks he posted last season hint at the dynamic interior presence Pittsburgh is now paying for.
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