Steelers sign rising defensive star to massive $70-plus million extension

The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their defensive line with a significant contract extension for rising star Keeanu Benton. On Friday, NFL Network correspondent Ian Rapoport revealed that the Steelers inked the 2023 second-round draft pick to a four-year, $72 million agreement. The deal translates to an average annual value of $18 million, positioning Benton as the highest-paid defensive lineman in the team's history.

Benton, primarily a nose tackle, will transition to a 3-4 defensive end role under new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham in 2026. Selected with the 49th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Benton rapidly became a starter, tallying 123 combined tackles, nine tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles over three seasons in 51 games.

With Benton joining Darnell Washington and Nick Herbig under long-term contracts, the focus now shifts to cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who remains injury-prone but is expected to make a significant impact in the cornerback market.