Steelers’ Keeanu Benton makes franchise history with massive extension

The Pittsburgh Steelers are ensuring that their defensive remains formidable in the future after making a clear statement Friday night with Keeanu Benton’s new contract. The Steelers are traditionally known for their tough defenses, especially during the Mike Tomlin era. However, Pittsburgh locked up another cornerstone piece for the defensive side of the ball heading into the 2026 NFL season. MORE: ‘Bachelorette’ host Jesse Palmer calls Jayden Daniels immature in LSU jersey dispute NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport details that Benton is set to become the highest-paid defensive lineman in Steelers history. The four-year, $72 million contract extension puts the former second-round pick’s average annual value at $18 million. Pittsburgh’s been highly successful with its 2023 NFL Draft selections, including Benton. He becomes the third player from that draft class to receive an extended contract after Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington also garnered more money. MORE: NFL puts restrictions on Troy Aikman after accepting Dolphins consulting role Benton, 25, played four years for the Wisconsin Badgers before moving on from college football. Since then, he’s become a critical piece for the Steelers defensive line. Steelers star makes franchise history Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff runs the ball against Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Benton’s contract is the third-highest valued deal in Steelers history, but the team’s yearly commitment is massive. Only T.J. Watt and Herbig have earned more money over the full length of their deals. New head coach Mike McCarthy has big shoes to fill with Tomlin now commentating for NBC Sports. That’s why Benton’s deal is significant for the Steelers as they aim to restore their strong defense. MORE: Projecting the Week 1 starter at QB for every NFL team Last season, Benton posted a career year for the AFC North franchise with 5.5 sacks and 51 tackles. It’s clear that his value is rising within the franchise’s ranks as Pittsburgh aims for another playoff run in 2026. The Steelers captured the division last season before suffering a tough home playoff defeat at the hands of the Houston Texans. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —