The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2023 NFL Draft haul was highly graded by many around the league. On paper, the front office did exceptionally well in not only addressing positions of need, but also adding players who were expected to go much sooner than where they actually ended up being selected. While much of the attention this offseason has been centered around the team's first two picks, Broderick Jones and Joey Porter Jr., the argument can be made that another member of the 2023 class has a much clearer path to being a day-one starter for the black and gold, former Wisconsin defensive lineman, Keeanu Benton.
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Steelers' DL, Keeanu Benton, During His Time At Wisconsin
At 6'4" and 309 pounds, Benton possesses the necessary size and athleticism to play nose tackle for the Steelers' defense in 2023. In 2022, this role was held primarily be Montravius Adams, who will be back for his third season in Pittsburgh this upcoming season. However, as Pittsburgh Post-Gazette writer, Ray Fittipaldo describes in a recent episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Adams is far from a lock to win the job for a second consecutive campaign.
"Montravius Adams was the starter again last season, but he's just okay. He doesn't really affect the pass rush, he hasn't had a sack since he's been with the Steelers. I think he's okay in the running game."
Fittipaldo raises a fair argument. During his time in Pittsburgh, Adams has shown glimpses of being disruptive, but has not had enough consistency to have the starting role handed to him. On the flip-side, Fittipaldo believes Benton has a much higher ceiling compared to Adams and is in the driver's seat to occupy the nose tackle job in 2023.
"Keeanu Benton can do both. It's going to be interesting to see if he can do that in practices and in the preseason games to the point where coaches will say, 'Okay, we're going to trust you. You're going to be a starter as a rookie.' They did that back in 2016 with Javon Hargrave," said Fittipaldo.
Will Benton Win The Starting Job On The Steelers' Defense?
As Fittipaldo detailed, the groundwork has been laid by former Steelers' nose tackle, Javon Hargrave, for Benton to start on the defensive front as a rookie. While it is yet to be seen if Benton will be the same type of player as Hargrave, the team's willingness to play first-year players at the position improves his stock. Furthermore, the unit already has a formidable duo in Cam Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi who will undoubtedly comprise 2/3 of the starting defensive line group this upcoming season. With both players commanding double teams, it may allow for a player with Benton's quickness to absolutely thrive.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Defensive Linemen Cam Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi
In addition to Adams, Benton will have to fend off Breiden Fehoko, who signed with the Steelers this offseason for a spot on the defensive line as well. Fehoko fits more of the traditional mold at nose tackle. During his limited appearances with the Los Angeles Chargers over the past three seasons, he has had moments in which he has impressed. However, he offers little in pass-rushing abilities and will likely only be on the field in obvious run situations.
Armon Watts, who also signed with the Steelers this offseason after stints with both the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings, may also see some snaps at nose tackle. He may also serve as a backup to both Heyward and Ogunjobi at defensive end, however. With eight career sacks, including a career-high five in 2021, Watts has proven he has the necessary attributes to be an effective pass rusher.
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Steelers' DL, Armon Watts, During His Time With The Bears
Final Thoughts
Fittipaldo hit the nail right on the head with his assessment of Benton's chances of being an immediate starter for the team's defense. Assuming the second-round pick can remain healthy, he will likely be starting alongside Heyward and Ogunjobi on opening day against the San Francisco 49ers. Jones and Porter Jr. may end up having more of an impact in future seasons, but do not be surprised if Benton is the rookie who plays the biggest role in 2023.
What do you make of Benton's chances to start at nose tackle? Do you believe he is more talented than Fehoko and Watts? What other rookies are you excited to watch in training camp? Be sure to let us know in the comments!
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