The Pittsburgh Steelers have had immense success with defensive linemen whether that’s first-round picks such as TJ Watt and Cameron Heyward. Or late-round surprises like Brett Keisel. Or even undrafted legends like James Harrison. It does not matter where the player comes from, the Steelers will turn them into stars. One player who could be the next defensive star is going under most fans’ radar. That player’s name is Keeanu Benton.
Benton was selected by the Steelers 49th overall in the 2023 NFL draft. Keeanu Benton’ draft comparison was star nose tackle for the Colts, Grover Stewart. Benton’s biggest eye catchers for teams were his power and quickness. His size helped him in the run while his get off speed helped with his pass rush. Overall, Keeanu seemed to be a well-rounded nose tackle who looked pro-ready. The Steelers would of course draft Benton in the second round. Steelers would also draft Keeanu’s teammate, Nick Herbig, later in that year’s draft. Steelers had past success with players out of Wisconsin with players like all-pro TJ Watt and Isaiahh Loudermilk. This made an easy connection between each party which helped Benton get drafted.
While Keeanu Benton did not get the start at nose tackle week one. He still recorded 29 snaps and had an 86.1 PFF grade, which was the team’s second highest grade that week. Keeanu would go on to share the starting nose tackle spot with Montravius Adams up until week 15 where he would get his first official start. Keeanu Benton would continue to have a great rookie year. Recording 42% of the team’s snaps as the season progressed. Benton would finish the year with a 74.8 PFF grade with his best graded game coming in week 16 where he would finish the game with an impressive 89.8 PFF grade. Benton had 22 pressures and 8 quarterback hits for the season. The former Wisconsin student would also get recognition from Pittsburgh analyst, Nick Farabaugh, as well as NFL insider, Brian Baldinger. The Fox analyst is quoted as saying, “He does his job and I love this.” Baldinger gave extremely high praise to the young nose tackle. Which is big for someone like Benton whose name is not on most lists for top run defenders.
2024 is going to be a wonderful year for Keeanu to successfully solidify himself as a top defender. Cameron Heyward’s leadership is also great for Benton’s development. With a great bag on pass rush moves and playing big in the run, Benton is built to be a future Pro bowl nod. And the Steelers will continue to have great defensive tackle play for years to come.