Steelers, DT Keeanu Benton reportedly agree to 4-year, $72 million extension; highest for a DL in Steelers history

The Pittsburgh Steelers and defensive tackle Keeanu Benton have reached an agreement on a four-year, $72 million extension, according to ESPN's Ian Rapoport. This deal secures Benton as the highest-paid defensive lineman in Steelers history. Benton, who was entering the final year of his rookie contract, will now be committed to the team until the 2030 season.

The defensive tackle, who was taken with the 49th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has played in every regular-season game during his three-year tenure with the Steelers. In the 2022 season, he appeared in all 17 games and recorded 51 combined tackles, including a career-high 5.5 sacks. Benton is the second major signing by the Steelers this offseason, following cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who recently agreed to a four-year, $100 million deal.

The team still has one more foundation piece of their defense to extend, with cornerback Joey Porter Jr. still awaiting his extension. Porter Jr., a second-round pick, is currently on the PUP list due to a back injury.