One day after their exciting preseason victory over the Green Bay Packers, the Pittsburgh Steelers have another reason to celebrate: signing their 2023 second-round draft pick to a huge $70-plus-million extension.
On Friday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Steelers signed defensive tackle Keeanu Benton to a four-year, $72 million contract. His average annual value of $18 million makes him the highest-paid defensive lineman in team history.
Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton and the #Steelers have agreed to a four-year, $72M contract extension, sources say. This deal, worth $18M per year, will make Benton the highest paid DL in Steelers history.
The deal was negotiated by agent Joe DiBenedetto of @1OF1FOOTBALL. pic.twitter.com/TnfTWh5NkQ
Primarily playing at nose tackle, Benton is expected to switch to 3-4 defensive end in DC Patrick Graham's new-look defense in 2026.
Benton, selected by the Steelers with the 49th overall pick in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, quickly emerged as a starting-caliber defensive lineman. Over the past three seasons, Benton has recorded 123 combined tackles, nine tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles in 51 games.
With Benton, Darnell Washington, and Nick Herbig now signed to long-term extensions, all eyes turn to Joey Porter Jr., who's still expected to make a splash in the cornerback market despite the injuries he's dealing with.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers sign rising defensive star to massive $70-plus million extension
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