The Pittsburgh Steelers have three contract extensions completed this offseason but face a more complex decision with defensive lineman Keeanu Benton. Insider Ray Fittipaldo highlighted a potential sticking point tied to Benton's projected role in 2026.
Pittsburgh entered the offseason with five prime extension candidates. Three deals are done, leaving Benton and Joey Porter Jr. as the remaining priorities. Porter's agreement appears likely, while Benton's path is less certain. Fittipaldo said on 93.7 The Fan’s Morning Show that Yahya Black could start at nose tackle. He noted the risk of extending a player who might not hold a starting spot ahead of Cam Heyward or Derrick Harmon. Benton is still expected to play about 60 percent of snaps this season. New defensive line coach Domata Peko has discussed a more varied role for Benton and praised Black's potential. Benton's snap count could drop by nearly 30 percent from last year's 234 if Black takes over some duties. The team previously extended Nick Herbig for $100 million despite a non-starting role. Benton's Over The Cap valuation stands at $8.36 million per year. Questions remain about whether he fits as an every-down defensive end once Heyward retires.
