Pittsburgh is weighing its contract extension options, with Keeanu Benton and Joey Porter Jr. as the last two candidates. While Porter’s deal is expected to happen soon, Benton’s situation is complicated due to his uncertain role in the lineup. Insider Ray Fittipaldo highlighted that if Yahya Black emerges as the starting nose tackle, extending Benton might not justify the investment, especially since he may not be a starter. There are concerns about whether Benton will have an integral role, which could influence the Steelers' decision to extend his contract.

By the Numbers
  • Benton logged 234 snaps last season, potentially declining to 60% of snaps this season.
  • His estimated market value is $8.36 million APY.
Yes, But

While extending Benton could offer stability, the Steelers might hesitate to pay for a player who might not be a starting factor. Given Black's potential prominence, the team's priorities could shift, impacting Benton's contract prospects.

State of Play
  • Three contract extensions have already been finalized, leaving Benton and Porter as the final considerations.
  • Benton's role is uncertain, and his snap count may drop significantly if Black assumes the starting position.
What's Next

The Steelers will likely prioritize Joey Porter Jr.'s contract extension next. The team's management should evaluate Benton's role thoroughly before making any long-term commitments.

Bottom Line

The Steelers face a pivotal decision regarding Keeanu Benton’s future; ensuring a player contributes to their lineup outcomes will influence the contracts they prioritize. This situation underscores the importance of depth chart dynamics in player extensions.