It may be time for the Steelers to lower expectations for third-year DL Keeanu Benton, one beat writer suggests. After two years of largely only solid play, he doesn’t appear to be the second coming of Javon Hargrave. But perhaps he doesn’t need to be, if they don’t treat him as though he must.
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Steelers drafted two defensive linemen, including Derrick Harmon, in the first round. The move will keep Benton at nose tackle, Cameron Heyward remaining on the opposite end. Harmon should start as a rookie, and of course, will carry expectations of special play.