Several Wisconsin Badgers have played successful careers at the next level. None more recently successful than former running back Jonathan Taylor.
However, former defensive tackle Keeanu Benton has cashed in on what has been an incredible few seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Officially, Benton has become the highest-paid defensive lineman in Pittsburgh Steelers history after signing a four-year, $72 million contract.
Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton and the #Steelers have agreed to a four-year, $72M contract extension, sources say. This deal, worth $18M per year, will make Benton the highest paid DL in Steelers history.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 15, 2026
The deal was negotiated by agent Joe DiBenedetto of @1OF1FOOTBALL. pic.twitter.com/TnfTWh5NkQ
Since being drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Benton has notched 123 total tackles, 7.5 sacks and 9 tackles for loss. Last season, against the pass, Benton ranked as one of the NFL’s strongest tackles, registering a 72.0 PFF Grade, which ranked 23rd-best among a possible 134 qualifying players. With the Badgers, Benton totaled 80 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and 9 sacks, along with 4 passes defended, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble.
Benton accumulated several accolades, including All-Big Ten Second Team (2021&2022, coaches), All-Big Ten Honorable Mention (2021, media) and Phil Steele’s Fourth-Team All-America Preseason Team. While Benton’s contract proves he is a key cog in the future of the Steelers, for now there is every chance he has to wait until team legend Cameron Heyward leaves the organization, according to ESPN's depth chart projection.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Former Wisconsin star earns $72M extension with Pittsburgh Steelers