Steelers just got another reminder that Keeanu Benton won't come cheap

Still Curtain · Jul 21, 2026 16:59 · 2 min read

Steelers just got another reminder that Keeanu Benton won't come cheap — Pittsburgh Steelers DT Keeanu Benton | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

News of Devonte Wyatt's extension put the Pittsburgh Steelers back on the clock for Keeanu Benton's new deal, and it won't be a cheap one.

News travels quickly in the NFL. So when word broke of the Green Bay Packers' three-year $57 million extension with defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt, Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan was put back on the clock. Because now, the market value for defensive disruptors is rising.

And the Steelers still need to evaluate Keeanu Benton’s future.

Solidifying Wyatt was a smart move for Green Bay. The former first-round pick has earned 16 sacks through his first four seasons. He’s a proven quarterback hunter with a large interior presence. I know he’ll become an anchor for Jonathan Gannon’s unit. So the player is worth the investment.

Ironically, Benton has similar upside.

Physicality at the line of scrimmage is Pittsburgh’s calling card. And Keeanu Benton is becoming the anchor of the line. In 2025, he started at nose tackle in Terryl Austin’s defensive scheme. It was a promotion from being a rotational player in previous seasons. Luckily, the former Wisconsin Badger answered the call.

It’s been a slow but steady journey for the Steelers’ former second-round pick. Since 2023, Benton’s earned 7.5 sacks, with 5.5 coming during a strong campaign last season. His versatility and pass-rush ability are paramount for a defense looking to expand its identity. It opens the door for Benton to become a vital part of Patrick Graham’s creative new vision.

The Pittsburgh Steeler must act quickly to secure Keeanu Benton before DT market skyrockets

Figures become funny when negotiating long-term deals for unproven players. Sure, Benton’s worked his way into a starting role. But he’s yet to have the breakout season, leaving fans with a yearning for more. Don’t get me wrong, I believe there’s a role for Benton on the roster.

But how much is the spot worth?

Wyatt’s extension creates a soft blueprint for Khan’s to negotiate with Benton. The Green Bay defensive lineman will average roughly $19 million per year. It’s a reasonable price for the former first-round pick, and it may become the baseline if conversations are delayed.

When comparing the interior forces, I believe there are more similarities than differences. Both Benton (6’4”) and Wyatt (6’3”) are huge interior players and massive roadblocks for opposing offensive lines. Success in recent campaigns resulted in a new contract for Green Bay’s mauler.

The Steelers used Benton in multiple techniques. So where Wyatt shines in experience, Pittsburgh’s lineman recovers with versatility. It compensates even if stingy pockets refuse to see long-term potential. When evaluating value, I believe Benton is worth a similar deal. And the market will only increase as time passes.