Steelers' Keeanu Benton Honestly Grades First Two Seasons And Is Ready To Improve

The Pittsburgh Steelers have serious concerns on the defensive line, especially now that Cameron Heyward is beginning near retirement. Heyward, who turns 36 years old in the summer of 2025, ended up being, by far, Pittsburgh's best defensive lineman in 2024, despite battling a tough groin injury the season prior. Although Heyward has been extremely dependable and dominant on the Steelers' defensive front, the younger linemen, like Keeanu Benton, need to make drastic improvements moving forward. 

Steelers General Manager Omar Khan and the front office drafted Benton in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, and the University Of Wisconsin product would go on to have a promising rookie season. In his rookie campaign, when he played in all 17 regular season games, Benton had one sack and forced two fumbles as a key defender against the run. 

After showing positive signs on the defensive line early in his career, the bar of expectations were then set high for Benton. Benton's second season as a professional wasn't spectacular, though, and he'll need to take a big jump in 2025 to stay on the right track. Benton's second-year numbers were nearly identical to his rookie season. In both seasons, he had 36 total tackles and just one sack. 

However, Benton became more active on the line defending the pass in his second season, as he picked off his first career interception against the Cleveland Browns later in the year and also defended a career-high six passes. Benton recently reflected on his first two seasons in Pittsburgh and even went as far as to give himself a grade. 

"I think there's a lot of meat left on that bone," Benton said. "I think there's a lot of things I can improve on. I give myself a solid C, but I grade hard on myself. I gotta be my biggest critic to be where I want to be in the future."

The Pittsburgh defense, specifically the front seven, suffered from some serious struggles late in the year during the losing streak to close out the 2024 campaign. Much of that was because no one was able to step up in a big way behind Heyward, and the defense started to allow big rushing performances, especially by the Baltimore Ravens. Not only does Benton need to up his level in his third season, but the Steelers need to add more quality depth, either through the draft or free agency. 

On a positive note, it's important for young players like Benton to have a focused mindset on continuing to grow and learn. As long as Heyward is still in the locker room, the future hall of famer will keep pushing Benton and the other defensive linemen. Eventually, Heyward will have to retire and someone else will have to become the captain of the guys up front. 

Steelers' Lack Of Development On Defensive Line Could Be A Serious Coaching Mishap

Benton isn't the only defensive lineman that hasn't developed as quickly as fans would like. DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk are both young members of the defensive front for Pittsburgh, but neither of them has had a big effect on the franchise so far. Karl Dunbar, Pittsburgh's defensive line coach, has been coaching for the black and gold since 2018. 

Although the lack of development on the interior line may not be at the fault of Dunbar, it could be a result of the organization refusing to add talent to the coaching staff. The Steelers have been unwilling to make major adjustments to the coaching staff despite now going eight straight seasons without a postseason victory, and it continues to haunt them on all levels. 

How do you think Benton will perform in his third season? Do you trust the Steelers' coaching staff? Let us know your thoughts below. 

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