Steelers Listed Keeanu Benton as Non-Participant
Pittsburgh's defensive tackle missed practice with an ankle injury before the team's matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Football
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The Pittsburgh Steelers reported that defensive tackle Keeanu Benton did not participate in practice due to an ankle injury. This designation comes as the team prepares to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 6.
Why it matters
Benton has been a vital part of the defensive rotation in 2026, logging 190 defensive snaps through the first five games of the season. His potential absence could force the team to rely on depth players to bolster the defensive front.
Keeanu Benton recorded 5.5 sacks in 2025 and has accumulated 7 pressures through his first 190 defensive snaps of 2026. Gabriel Rubio recorded 3 tackle assists on 14 defensive reps during his Week 5 appearance.
The players
Keeanu Benton
He is a defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers who was selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Derrick Harmon
He is a defensive player for the Steelers currently on the reserve/injured list following a foot injury sustained in Week 4.
Gabriel Rubio
He is a defensive player for the Pittsburgh Steelers who saw increased action in Week 5 due to teammate absences.
Kevin Jobity Jr.
He is a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers roster who may be in line to make his NFL debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The details
The team has been utilizing Benton across the defensive line to maximize his pass-rush impact following his four-year, $72 million contract extension signed in mid-August 2026. With Derrick Harmon already on the reserve/injured list, the defensive front faces thinning depth, potentially opening a debut opportunity for Kevin Jobity Jr.
Timeline
Keeanu Benton was selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Benton recorded a career-high 5.5 sacks during the 2025 season.
Benton signed a four-year contract extension worth $72 million in mid-August 2026.
Derrick Harmon suffered a foot injury during the Week 4 game against the Cleveland Browns.
The Steelers are scheduled to play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 6 of the 2026 season.
The Big Picture
This injury report follows the NFL's mandatory injury reporting protocols, which ensure league-wide transparency regarding player availability. The team must adhere to these standards to maintain competitive fairness for all clubs participating in the 2026 season.
If Benton is ruled out for the Week 6 matchup, fantasy managers and observers should expect a significant increase in defensive snap counts for Gabriel Rubio. The team will also likely activate Kevin Jobity Jr. to ensure depth on the defensive front against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The takeaway
Team depth is critical during the mid-season grind, as one injury often triggers a cascade of roster adjustments. Monitoring the practice participation reports throughout the week remains the most reliable indicator of who will actually suit up on Sunday.
Further reading
Find more analysis of the team roster and depth updates in the Pittsburgh Football section.
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