Steelers Lose Another Defensive Starter to Injury
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense takes another hit just ahead of Week 1.
PITTSBURGH – The Steelers’ defensive line faces another setback with Keeanu Benton reportedly suffering an upper-body injury, according to Chris Halicke of DK Pittsburgh Sports. This news comes shortly after first-round rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon was sidelined with a knee sprain, leaving Pittsburgh without two key starters on their defensive front. 
Benton missed the final practice of the weekend, sparking concerns that he might be dealing with an injury. This is just the latest in a series of setbacks for Pittsburgh’s defense this summer, which has already seen outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, cornerbacks Beanie Bishop and Cory Trice, and safety Juan Thornhill miss time. Now, both their starting nose tackle and defensive tackle are also unavailable.
Despite the injuries, Halicke reports there is optimism that Benton will be ready to play in the season opener against the New York Jets. Harmon is expected to miss only one game, so barring any setbacks, the Steelers should only be down one starter in Week 1. After that, they hope to have a fully healthy roster.
Benton, entering his third NFL season, was slated to start alongside Harmon and Cam Heyward on the defensive front. A former second-round pick, Benton is seen as a key piece for Pittsburgh’s future, currently playing nose tackle with an eye on eventually replacing Heyward at defensive tackle.
With two weeks of practice remaining before the season opener at MetLife Stadium against the Jets, Benton might miss much of the practice time. However, with roster cuts and depth chart decisions approaching, the Steelers could use this as an opportunity to evaluate their depth players.
If Benton is unable to play, rookie fifth-round pick Yahya Black could step in as a starter. Black has impressed during training camp and the preseason, showcasing his ability to bat down passes and register two sacks in the final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. Another possible replacement is Daniel Ekuale, who spent last season with the New England Patriots.
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