Steelers Veteran Larry Ogunjobi Tells Fans They Should Keep An Eye On Dynamic Second-Round Pick During 2023 Training Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially wrapped up team activities until training camp begins on July 27th in Latrobe, PA. While Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp provided little context as to which players performances exceeded expectations, it allows fans to see their favorite players back in action for the first time since the Steelers concluded the 2022 regular season. Going into the 2023 campaign, the team is poised to improve their record of 9-8 from 2022 and make the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season. 

One of the biggest reasons the Steelers are in a much better position to compete for a playoff spot in 2023 is because of how active Omar Khan and the front office has been in adding new players to the roster, via both free agency as well as the 2023 NFL Draft. 

The team has seemingly filled every major hole such as inside linebacker, offensive line and cornerback in addition to adding key depth pieces at outside linebacker, defensive line and safety. With quarterback, Kenny Pickett in line to take a significant leap in production on the offensive side of the ball, the Steelers have taken all the necessary steps to be a legitimate contender in 2023. 

Not only have the Steelers put themselves in a great situation to win a lot of games, but they have also done well preparing for the future as the team's 2023 NFL Draft haul was highly impressive. Players such as Joey Porter Jr. and Broderick Jones have received much of the media attention, but there is another player from the class who may have the opportunity to be the most meaningful contributor during his rookie year: Keeanu Benton.

During a recent interview with Missi Matthews of steelers.com, Benton's fellow member of the defensive line room, Larry Ogunjobi explained why fans should be sure to look out for the former University of Wisconsin standout during practices in Latrobe. 

"I'd say 95. I just think his skill set, what he's been able to do, how he moves, I think he's going to surprise a lot of people. I'm just really excited to watch him work. He has that explosion, he's quick, he's twitchy. I give him high praises, and I see a kid who wants to work, and who wants to be great," Ogunjobi said. 

What Will Benton's Role With The Steelers Be In 2023? 

Benton could not have asked to go into a better situation than the Steelers as the second-round pick has a tremendous opportunity to be a day-one starter on the defensive front in addition to being mentored by future Hall of Fame candidate, Cameron Heyward. Furthermore, he was able to reunite with former Wisconsin teammates Isaiahh Loudermilk and Nick Herbig. 

With all this in mind, Benton should feel right at home in Pittsburgh and provide an immense amount of talent to an already solid group of defensive linemen. His quickness off the ball and strength will be a welcome addition to a defense that has the all pieces to be dominant next season. 

Both Heyward and Ogunjobi are locks to be starters in 2023. The final starting spot on the defensive line, likely at nose tackle, will come down to a number of different players, including Benton, Breiden Fehoko and Montravius Adams, among others. While the other candidates are more than capable of filling the role, it is likely going to be Benton who has the upper hand due to his ideal size and athleticism. 

Regardless of whether he starts or not, he will have an ample amount of opportunities to make big-time plays for the defense in 2023. If all goes well, Benton may just end up being the most impactful member of this the 2023 draft class. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation? 

Do you agree with Ogunjobi that Benton is poised for a breakout rookie year? Which other players are you excited to watch in Latrobe? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

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