'Alpha Dog!' Two Steelers Defenders Named To 'All-Breakout Team'
The Pittsburgh Steelers have gained the reputation as a true draft-and-develop team. They don’t make a ton of big free agency moves, and that’s by design.
Two players who have arrived in The Steel City via this path recently landed on the “2024 All-Breakout Team” posted by NFL.com
Cornerback Joey Porter Jr and second year defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, both in their second year, made Bucky Brooks of NFL.com’s list.
“The Steelers are known for identifying and developing worker bees on the defensive front. Benton appears to be the next young DT poised to give opponents fits,” Brooks wrote. “The 6-4, 309-pounder held his own as a part-time starter for a unit specializing in bully ball in the trenches.”
Karl Roser/Pittsburgh Steelers
“As an energetic defender with a non-stop motor and active hands, Benton outworks and outlasts blockers to win battles on critical downs. Though it is easier to win when playing alongside T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith, Benton’s disruptive talents could help the Steelers get back to playing championship-caliber football.”
Benton will be a key contributor up front in his second year out of Wisconsin. The former Badger recorder one sack and two forced fumbles a year ago in rotational playing time. Look for Benton to start in year two.
Joey Porter Jr., entering his second season out of Penn State, is predicted to have a meteoric rise toward being one of the top corners in the league.
“The second-year pro is a dark-horse contender for Pro Bowl honors in 2024 after thriving as the CB1 in Pittsburgh down the stretch last season,” Brooks wrote. “Porter’s toughness, tenacity and tools make him a difficult matchup for pass catchers who lack the speed and physicality to escape his clutches at the line. ...
“Though he remains a work in progress on the island, Porter’s alpha-dog mentality and unshakeable confidence could enable him to shine without a polished game.”
Porter is looking to follow in the footsteps of other corners who have taken that big step in their second year like Trent McDuffie from their AFC Rival, the Kansas City Chiefs.
These two are certainly players to watch as training camp begins shortly and throughout the season. If the Steelers strike gold with these two players, their defense will be in good hands moving forward.