The Pittsburgh Steelers are becoming the Pittsburgh Badgers in a way. This year it added both Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig in the NFL Draft, adding the two to a core of T.J. Watt, Isaiahh Loudermilk and Scott Nelson.
Benton was the team’s second-round pick after a stellar season in Madison. The now-former Badger was the engine behind the 2022 defense. When on the field, the unit performed quite well. When Benton was forced to the bench, the group struggled.
He finished the 2022 season with 36 tackles, 10 tackles-for-loss and 4.5 sacks.
After joining the Steelers during draft season, Benton has officially signed his rookie contract with the team. Ian Rapoport notes “Benton has guaranteed money in the third year of his contract, the first time ever for the 49th pick.
#Steelers second round DT Keeanu Benton has signed his rookie contract, source said. Benton has guaranteed money in the third year of his contract, the first time ever for the 49th pick. The deal was negotiated by @JoeNDiBenedetto and @KenSarnoff of 1 OF 1 Agency.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 23, 2023
Benton will look to continue his dominance on the football field when the Steelers kick off their season in September.