Scouting Reports:
SI Draft Bible: https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/keeanubenton
NFL Draft Buzz: https://www.nfldraftbuzz.com/Player/Keeanu-Benton-NT-Wisconsin
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/sr-prospect/keeanu-benton-84710fea-c19d-48c6-ac62-0334f02ee00e/
Fantasy Pro: https://www.fantasypros.com/2023/02/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-report-keeanu-benton-dl-wisconsin/
Articles:
2023 NFL Draft Week Rumors Friday (Two defensive tackles who had a late rise in the pre-draft meetings were Florida's Gervon Dexter and Wisconsin's Keeanu Benton. Coaches from around the NFL liked the fits that they presented for schemes, with Dexter being a run stuffer possessing athletic upside and Benton having some interior pass-rush potential. The 2023 NFL Draft is not strong at the defensive tackle position, but there are a number of teams that need interior defensive line help. It sounds like both Dexter and Benton could go in the second round tonight.) (4-28-23): https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2023-NFL-Draft-Week-Rumors-Friday
Lions' 2023 Draft Wants (THIRD ROUND - DL Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Benton was a top performer at the Senior Bowl, and recorded 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 2022 for the Badgers. It earned him honorable mention All-Big Ten honors.) (4-27-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-draft-wants
2023 NFL Draft: 13 Players Who Could Headline Days 2 & 3 (Keeanu Benton IDL, Wisconsin: A former wrestler, there won’t be many guards and centers even at the NFL level that will be able to match him with his hands. A big man with twitch, he can play the nose, 1-tech, or 3-tech, anchor against double teams, and has the juice to push the pocket on passing downs. I love his game.) (4-26-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-day-2-3-headliners/
NFL draft preview: Pass rushers will go early, though questions linger (At defensive tackle, Kancey is a blur of a pass rusher, though his short arms (30 5/8 inches) could be a disqualifier for some teams. It’s a thin interior line group behind Carter and Kancey. Bresee and Michigan’s Smith are likely top-50 picks, South Carolina’s Zacch Pickens should hear his name called later on because of his pass rush potential and Wisconsin’s Keeanu Benton is as experienced as any run stopper in the draft.) (4-26-23): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/26/nfl-draft-preview-pass-rushers-will-anderson-jalen-carter/70152516007/
2023 NFL Draft: Pre-draft morning mailbag on the Detroit Lions (Who are possible fits for the Lions in the 2nd and 3rd rounds? Always love the interaction I get from JaRell on Twitter. Great being able to talk Lions football with him. With that, I think there’s quite a few different names because this is the meat and potatoes of the draft. However, I’ll throw two names out there and we’ll see what happens. For starters, I think the Lions are going to do their best to end up with Wisconsin defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. He had a great week at the Senior Bowl and he’s got an explosive first step. Add in his effort and ability to consistently swipe the hands of the opposition and he seems destined to play as a 3-technique at the next level. I’d love to see Detroit end up selecting him with the 48th overall pick.) (4-25-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-pre-draft-morning-mailbag-jamo/
Ryan Fowler’s ‘My Guys’ For 2023 NFL Draft: Defense (Keeanu Benton (Wisconsin) - A former wrestler, there won’t be many guards and centers even at the NFL level that will be able to match him with his hands. A big man with twitch, he can play the nose, 1-tech, or 3-tech, anchor against double teams, and has the juice to push the pocket on passing downs. I love his game.) (4-25-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-defense-my-guys-fowler/
2023 NFL Draft: What Does the Defensive Tackle Class Look Like Behind Jalen Carter? (Defensive Tackle Notable Mentions - There are defensive tackles throughout the draft that could become plug-and-play starters from Day 1. However, the drop-off from the top to the second tier could push some to be taken earlier than expected. After Carter and Kancey, a few names to monitor would be Northwestern’s Adetomiwa Adebawore, Clemson’s Bryan Bresee, Baylor’s Siaki Ika, and Michigan’s Mazi Smith. Once those names are off the board, look for players like Keeanu Benton from Wisconsin and Gervon Dexter out of Florida to be players a team could take a chance on in Rounds 3 and 4 who could develop into plus starters.) (4-21-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/defensive-tackle-class-jalen-carter-2023/
What Are Keeanu Benton’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (4-20-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/keeanu-benton-nfl-draft-chiefs-saints-rams-steelers/
5 thoughts about what will and won't happen for the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL draft (Two specific defensive tackles that would not surprise me whatsoever to see in Detroit by the end of Friday night: Wisconsin’s Keeanu Benton or Georgia Tech’s Keion White–provided he’s not selected in the first round. And that shouldn’t surprise anyone either.) (4-20-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-thoughts-prospects-forecast/
Risers, fallers, teams trading up and more draft topics (7. Which prospect could make the biggest leap into Round 1? Edwards: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin -- "There are a handful of teams in the 20s and into the 30s that need help along the interior defensive line. A run on the position could happen in that range with Clemson's Bryan Bresee, Michigan's Mazi Smith, Pittsburgh's Calijah Kancey and Benton potentially coming off the board. When the run happens, teams will be looking to scoop up quality at the position and Benton falls into that bucket.") (4-20-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-risers-and-fallers-in-the-first-round-teams-that-could-trade-up-and-other-narratives/
Top 10 DTs in the 2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Carter Stands Tall on the Interior (9. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Keeanu Benton turned it on down the stretch in 2022, finishing his final season with 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. But in truth, the flashes of dominance have always been there. He was just able to put it together at the right time. Benton can still do a better job overall managing leverage, but he’s a stack-and-shed master with his powerful hands and brutal strength. He also has the hand violence, initial burst, and flashes of lateral agility to provide pass-rushing value.) (4-18-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/
2023 NFL Draft preview: 5 defensive tackles that could interest the Lions (4. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Four-year player, 45 career games played with 38 in three seasons and seven in the 2020 Covid season. Posted 19 career tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. Set his personal bests in both in 2022 – 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. Bottom line: A durable, productive, consistent player.) (4-16-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-preview-5-defensive-tackles-lions-carter-kancey-bresee
Two Prospects Who Will Outplay Where They Are Drafted (DT Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: My number two defensive tackle in the entire draft, Benton, is a massive defensive tackle who is a very athletic player for his size. Benton is the best run defender in the draft and he’ll be a high-end run defender as a rookie. What makes Benton such an intriguing prospect, though, is his upside as a pass rusher. Benton is explosive off the snap, displaying violent hands and the power to knock back interior offensive linemen. He is very quick and bends well, making Benton a threat to win in a multitude of ways. Benton showed how good of a pass rusher he is during a dominant Senior Bowl week. There is a lot of untapped potential with Benton as a pass rusher that could make him a very effective 3-tech at the next level. Benton gets routinely mocked in the second round but he is a first-round caliber player and a better prospect than the likes of Bryan Bresee and Calijah Kancey.) (4-14-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/two-prospects-who-will-outplay-where-they-are-drafted
2023 NFL Draft: One riser, one faller at each position according to PFF's Mock Draft Simulator (Risers - DI Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin (PFF Big Board Rank: 55): Per PFF's Draft Guide, “Benton split time almost evenly between the A- (698 snaps) and B-gaps (612) over the course of his career. He can easily fill the same role in the NFL.” Benton was being drafted around the No. 80 pick in late February but is now going near the No. 53 pick as of early April, per PFF's Mock Draft Simulator.) (4-14-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-risers-fallers-each-position-mock-draft-simulator
2023 NFL Draft: Trevor Sikkema's top 5 players at each defensive position (3. Keeanu Benton: Benton has one of the highest floors in a class seemingly featuring many low ones. He’s a stout run defender who has blossomed into a good pass rusher.) (4-13-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-five-players-defense-2023-nfl-draft-sikkema
2023 NFL Draft: The top 8 interior defensive linemen (the 6. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin (Height: 6′ 3⅝” (62nd percentile), Weight: 309 (62nd), 40-Yard Dash: 5.08 (51st), 10-Yard Split: 1.79 (29th), Bench Press: 25 reps (34th), Vertical Jump: 29½” (52nd), Broad Jump: 111″ (81st), 3-Cone Drill: 7.34 (80th), 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.65 (50th), Arm Length: 33⅞” (73rd), Hand Size: 9¾” (37th)) - Bio: A three-star recruit by 247 Sports, ESPN and Rivals, Benton started six games in his freshman season, and recorded his first collegiate sack against Ohio State — which is a nice way to get going. Over four seasons with the Badgers, Benton totaled 10 sacks, 24 quarterback hits, 34 quarterback hurries, 58 tackles, and 57 stops. He had 700 snaps in the A-gaps, 611 in the B-gaps, five over the tackles, and one outside the tackles. Stat to Know: Benton’s four sacks last season each came from different gaps — the left and right B-gaps, the A-gap, and the left edge. Strengths: People tend to talk about Benton more as a run defender than as a pass disruptor, but there’s enough tape of him getting to the quarterback from multiple gaps to make me think that his part of his game is undersold. Benton has nice quickness off the snap, and the upper-body strength needed to displace blockers on a regular basis. Benton’s pure power off the snap allows him to landslide some pretty tough blockers — his reps against Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz (perhaps the best center in this class) showed that. Weaknesses: Benton will get too high in his stances at times, and as is the case with just about any lineman on either side of the ball, when you do that… well, you tend to lose leverage, and you’ll get bodied all over the court. Benton has good pursuit speed and determination, which make him a pest even late in the down, but there isn’t a lot of recovery quickness here. If you get him off his spot, he’s going to stay there, at least at this stage of his development. Conclusion: Benton strikes me as the kind of player who could really bump up his game with a year or two of NFL coaching that would reinforce more advanced techniques with his hands and in his leverage. Right now, he’s a big ball of clay in a lot of ways, but if his coaches at the next level could marry the nuances of the position(s) with his strength and first-step quickness, Benton might turn out to be a top-tier player everywhere from 3-tech to overhead nose tackle. NFL Comparison: DaQuan Jones. The Titans selected Jones in the fourth round of the 2014 draft out of Penn State, hoping that he’d fill out his power and quickness with more of a knack for avoiding washouts along the line of scrimmage. People tend to expect more of Jones than he’s displayed through his NFL career, but he’s been a consistent provider of pressure and run stops. Not at an elite level for the most part, but good enough to stay in the game. Benton might be aiming for “JAG” status at the next level, but he is capable of more.) (4-7-23): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-defensive-tackles-jalen-carter-calijah-kancey/
Is Keeanu Benton Lions' DT of Future? (4-7-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/keeanu-benton-lions-scouting-report
Lions 2023 draft: A defensive tackle for every round (3rd round: Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin - Benton instantly grabbed attention for using the Lions buzzword “grit” several times in his media session at the NFL Scouting Combine. A lightly recruited former wrestler, the chip on his (broad) shoulders is easy to see. He plays the nose tackle spot as you would expect of an angry 310-pound former wrestler. Benton can stand up a blocker and control the gap, making life very easy for the linebackers behind him. Benton is more of an interior anchor than a pass rusher, though he can overpower zone blockers when he wins off the snap. One note on projections vs. player evaluations: I personally grade Benton out higher than I do Adebawore (they’re quite close overall), but mock drafts typically have Adebawore going at least 25 picks before Benton. The listings here are based on the projections, not the evaluations.) (4-2-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2023-draft-a-defensive-tackle-for-every-round/
2023 NFL Draft: Favorite Day 2 player at each position (IDL: KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN - Benton has made some serious money this draft cycle. Seen as mostly just a run-stuffing nose tackle heading into the 2022 season, Benton took his pass-rush game to the next level. He finished the year with 30 total pressures, a 13.67% pass-rush win percentage and six sacks — all career highs. He then went to the Senior Bowl and showed off some fast hands in the one-on-one pass-rush drills. At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, Benton tested above the 80th percentile in both the three-cone and the broad jump, flashing explosiveness and quickness.) (4-1-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-favorite-day-2-player-each-position
Defensive Linemen Lions Could Target in Each Round of 2023 NFL Draft (Round 3 — Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Another top performer at the Senior Bowl, Benton is a prototypical nose tackle. He recorded 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 2022 for the Badgers, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors. He finished his career with 9.5 sacks despite lining up as the team’s nose tackle, which comes with mostly run-stopping responsibilities. His explosiveness still has room to grow, but he has shown a knack for finding the ball on his tape. If the Wisconsin product can continue to demonstrate solid play recognition and the ability to get off blocks quicker, he would be a steal in the third round.) (3-29-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/defensive-lineman-lions-could-target-2023-nfl-draft
2023 NFL Draft DT prospect rankings: Jalen Carter leads a gifted group (4. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin, 6-4, 309, Senior - Overview: The Badgers didn't have to look far with Benton, a three-star recruit who excelled on the wrestling mat as well as the football field in Craig, WI., about an hour south of campus. Benton played in 12 games as a true freshman, even starting six times. He started five of the seven games in Wisconsin's pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, as well as 25 contests over the past two years. Benton registered 81 tackles over his college career, with 19 coming behind the line of scrimmage, including nine sacks. He set career-highs in tackles (36), tackles for loss (10) and sacks (four) as a senior, earning a trip to Mobile, where he proved one of the standouts along the line of scrimmage during practices. Strengths: He is a naturally large man with broad shoulders and long (33 7/8") arms, as well as a stout lower half. Physical and powerful. Attacks would-be blockers with swinging mallets for hands, breaking their grip and tossing them aside, while keeping an eye on the ball, efficiently repositioning to finish the play. An understanding of leverage and positioning from wrestling is clear in the way Benton clogs up interior running lanes and keeps his feet when pursuing laterally. He isn't going to wow anyone with his 40-yard dash time but is a good, functional athlete on the field, showing an explosive closing burst, as well as intriguing core flexibility to slither through gaps. Benton plays hard. It isn't out of the ordinary to see him pursuing 20 yards downfield. He's also a creative celebrator after big plays, making him popular with teammates and fans. Concerns: Benton's game is all about power and stuffing the run, and he's entering a league based increasingly on speed and the passing game. He is more powerful than explosive, with many of his big plays behind the line of scrimmage of the "coverage sack" variety after he was initially stalemated. He tires quickly, lacking the speed to chase down ballcarriers outside of the tackle box, though he does show good effort. Bottom Line: If teams are convinced that Benton's breakout 2022 was a sign of things to come he'll be off the board by the end of the second round. Talented, productive big men simply don't last long on draft day. Grade: Second round) (3-28-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-draft-dt-prospect-rankings-jalen-carter-leads-a-gifted-group
Ranking the top DTs in this year’s class (Tier 4 — Late Day 2/Early Day 3 - Keeanu Benton (Wisconsin), 6-foot-4, 309 pounds: Playing mostly as a nose tackle for Wisconsin, Benton projects to play a similar role in the NFL, where he can use his size to plug running lanes and push the pocket. He has impressive power and offers more than you’d expect as a pass rusher. Benton can play in odd or even fronts and could eventually develop into an NFL starter down the road. How he fits: 0/1-tech; nose tackle. Round grade: Third round) (3-23-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/23/23639576/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-dts-in-this-years-class
Every top-10 interior defender's highest-graded season (KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN (Big board rank: 67/DI6, Best PFF grade: 73.6, 2022, 2022 Pass-rush grade: 83.5, 2022 Run-defense grade: 65.2)) (3-10-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-every-top-10-interior-defenders-highest-graded-season
8 players from the Combine who stood out as potential Detroit Lions targets (Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin: I wrote about Benton after his podium interview, when he cited the Lions’ buzzword of “grit” a few times. A gritty interior lineman capable of playing the nose or the three-technique tackle, Benton then proved he’s a good athlete in the testing. Not the top of the heap athletically, but close enough to seriously interest the Lions on Day 2. The Lions met with Benton at the combine after also meeting with him at the Senior Bowl, where he was one of the top performers all week, too.) (3-6-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-draft-prospects-2023-nfl-scouting-combine/
Lions DC Aaron Glenn wants athletic defensive tackles, and NFL Draft has options (One second-round option for the Lions could be Wisconsin tackle Keeanu Benton. He admittedly needs work as a pass rusher — he turned 14 quarterback pressures into two sacks last season — but has demonstrated an ability to manipulate the defensive interior with his strength. If a player like him hits his potential with Detroit, it could go a long way. "I can hold blocks. I can hold double-teams. I can split double-teams," he said, adding that he's still building his repertoire as a pass rusher. "Just getting after the (passer), making my movements decisive and taking those milliseconds off so I can get sacks, rather than quarterback pressures.") (3-3-23): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/03/03/lions-dc-aaron-glenn-wants-athletic-defensive-tackles-and-nfl-draft-has-options/69968200007/
NFL Combine results: 7 standouts from the defensive tackle group (Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin (6-foot-4, 309) got better with every drill and by the end of the Combine, he had showcased his balance, power, and ability to change direction at top speed.) (3-2-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/2/23622404/2023-nfl-combine-results-7-standouts-defensive-tackle-group
2023 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Linemen (Up - Keanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin: Keanu Benton's 40 time of 5.08 isn't going to wow anyone, but it's not a bad result, given his 312-pound frame. What stands out is that Benton had the best 3-cone time (7.34) among defensive linemen. He also looked good in the drills to display plus agility.) (3-2-23): https://walterfootball.com/combine2023stockDL.php
NFL Combine results: 7 standouts from the defensive tackle group (Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin (6-foot-4, 309) got better with every drill and by the end of the Combine, he had showcased his balance, power, and ability to change direction at top speed.) (3-2-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/2/23622404/2023-nfl-combine-results-7-standouts-defensive-tackle-group
All-22 from the scouting combine: Defensive linemen detail their favorite plays (Keanu Benton, DI, Wisconsin: “Probably the goal-line stand against Minnesota. Just me blowing up and getting through the center, and getting a tackle for loss. Trying to do my best for the team. even though we were down.” Wisconsin lost this game to Minnesota 23-16, but Benton had five tackles, three quarterback pressures, and this tackle for loss from the Wisconsin five-yard line with 8:43 left in the fourth quarter. And it wasn’t just any center Benton blew up — it was John Michael Schmitz, regarded by many as the best player at his position in his draft class. Schmitz was no match for Benton (No. 95) on this particular play, and running back Mohamed Ibrahim paid the price. Benton did a great job of working quickly through Minnesota’s run slide.) (3-1-23): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-bryan-bresee-keeanu-benton-gervon-dexter/
Wisconsin DT Keeanu Benton touts his 'grit factor' at the NFL Scouting Combine (3-1-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/01/keeanu-benton-scouting-combine-interview-lions-draft-grit/
NFL Draft: Defensive positional rankings pre-combine (3. DT Keeanu Benton: Keeanu Benton is a proven run stopper who showed a bit more pass-rush potential at the Senior Bowl.) (2-27-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2023-jalen-carter-will-anderson-jr-atop-pre-combine-list-of-best-defensive-prospects-by-position/
10 Defensive Linemen for Lions to Watch at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine (Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin: One of the top performers at the Senior Bowl, Benton was a force in one-on-one drills in Mobile. He’s got a unique blend of size and speed, using his hands to create the necessary separation from opposing linemen. Benton is another Day 2 possibility who has high upside. He notched 10 tackles for loss with four-and-a-half sacks in 2022, evidence of his ability to get after passers. The Wisconsin product could bring plenty of value as a second-or-third-rounder, if Detroit misses on the top-flight talent.) (2-26-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-combine-preview-defensive-linemen
2023 NFL Combine preview: 10 defensive tackles the Lions should be watching (Keeanu Benton, NT, Wisconsin, 6-foot-3, 315: Productive and athletic, Benton is a four-year starter who fights through the whistle on every play. He’s not as physically gifted as Smith or Ika, but he holds his own in the middle of the line, and more often than not, wins the heavyweight battle.) (2-25-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/25/23613277/2023-nfl-combine-preview-10-defensive-tackles-the-lions-should-be-watching
2023 Combine preview: Defensive tackle (4. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin, 6-4, 312: He was one of the more consistent playmakers from the interior day in and day out at Senior Bowl practices. His game is more power than anything else and he racked up 10.0 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks for the Badgers this past season.) (2-22-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-combine-preview-defensive-tackle-carter-bresee-smith
2023 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Interior defensive line (6. KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN (BIG BOARD RANK: 70): Benton tantalizes more than he dominates on tape. Will that move toward the latter in the NFL?) (2-22-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-position-rankings-interior-defensive-line
Bucky Brooks' top five 2023 NFL Draft prospects by position 1.0: Stroud, Young, Hooker top QB rankings (4. Keeanu Benton) (2-16-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-top-five-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-1-0-stroud-young-hook
2023 NFL draft film room: Wisconsin DL Keeanu Benton (2-15-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-keeanu-benton-wisconsin-highlights/
Hot Take Tuesday: Keeanu Benton is DT2 in the 2023 NFL Draft: https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/hot-take-tuesday-keeanu-benton-is-dt2-in-the-2023-nfl-draft
Senior Bowl 2023 Defensive Standouts To Note (Keeanu Benton, IDL, Wisconsin: A former wrestler, Benton’s quickness, leverage, and hands flashed all week long. He was nothing short of fantastic and raised his stock immensely in all facets.) (2-7-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-defensive-standouts/
Biggest 2023 NFL Draft risers from the Shrine and Senior bowls (DI KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN: Wisconsin's Keeanu Benton was very impressive during Senior Bowl practices. He made a note to get better at pass rushing this past season and certainly did so, jumping from a 74.9 pass-rush grade in 2021 to an 83.6 pass-rush grade in 2022. At the Senior Bowl, he continued to improve in that area with great reps where he flashed fast and violent hand movements, good rip and swim moves and an ability to overpower some interior players. He can’t be seen as just your average nose tackle anymore. He showed he’s bringing the juice in pass rush, too.) (2-7-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-risers-shrine-senior-bowls
2023 Senior Bowl Practice Winners: Tyjae Spears and Nathaniel ‘Tank’ Dell Stand Out Most (Benton received recognition at this spot, but the Wisconsin DT fell off during practice on Thursday. Not Adetomiwa Adebawore, who got better each and every practice.) (2-5-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-senior-bowl-practice-winners-tyjae-spears-and-nathaniel-tank-dell-stand-out-most-at-their-positions/
2023 Senior Bowl: Biggest winners at every position (DT Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Benton was known as a good run defender, but he really helped himself by showing that the pass rush potential is there. In one-on-ones, Benton ate up the interior offensive line on the offensive line, flashing great quickness, body control, hands and ability to shed.) (2-4-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-winners-jayden-reed-tyjae-spears/
TWENTYMAN: 10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (2. DT Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: I thought Benton had a terrific week and was one of the most consistent performers. He's got a nice combination of size, power, quick feet and strong hands. He played nose tackle at Wisconsin but showed he can be a playmaker at the three technique as well.) (2-3-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-reed-brooks-torrence
15 Players Lions Should Be Impressed With at Senior Bowl (DT Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Benton entered the week projected as a later-round selection, but helped his case tremendously. Playing on the defensive interior, he dominated opponents during practices, using a combination of skill, size and speed.) (2-3-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/15-senior-bowl-players-who-impressed-lions
NFL News and Rumors: Cardinals Head Coaching Search, Latest in Denver, and More (DT Keeanu Benton Impressing Scouts - Scouts have been raving about Keeanu Benton for the past two days. For the most part, the former Wisconsin defensive tackle has been unstoppable, constantly beating opponents and penetrating the line of scrimmage. Benton came in with high expectations last season but disappointed many scouts. So what happened? Those inside the scouting circle say the scheme in Wisconsin asked Benton to occupy gaps rather than make plays. He’s allowed to make plays here in Mobile, and it’s having a positive impact on his draft stock.) (2-2-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-news-rumors-senior-bowl-cardinals-broncos/
TWENTYMAN: Senior Bowl Day 2 observations (Standing out: Two defensive linemen who stood out during Wednesday's National Team practice were Wisconsin's Keeanu Benton and Georgia Tech's Keion White. Both were terrific in 1-on-1 drills and made plays in team periods as well. Benton, an interior defender, had 10.0 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks this past season. White had 14.0 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks playing both on the edge and inside. White began his career at Old Dominion as a tight end.) (2-1-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-senior-bowl-day-2-observations-johnson-reed-hooker
2023 Senior Bowl Practice Recap: Day 1 (DT KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN: Benton seems to be a riser in this draft class as draft media compares his reps to those of the other interior defensive linemen. At Wisconsin, he was lined up at nose tackle quite a bit, which naturally brings an assumption that he’s just a run stuffer. He can certainly do that, but as you see in the clip below, he boasts quick hands and some pass-rush potential that looked unblockable for most of the first practice. ) (2-1-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-senior-bowl-practice-recap-day-1
Tuesday 2023 Senior Bowl Team Practice Report: Jaelyn Duncan and Dawand Jones Dominate (Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin: Keeanu Benton looked like a man amongst boys in practice and demolished the opposition during 1-on-1 drills. He looked explosive, powerful, and did a tremendous job playing with leverage. Benton also went hard on every snap, and his intensity was infectious.) (1-31-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tuesday-2023-senior-bowl-team-practice-report-jaelyn-duncan-and-dawand-jones-dominate/
2023 Senior Bowl preview: Top prospects, biggest sleepers at every position (Top Prospect: Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin - At 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds, Benton is the run defender that every NFL team would benefit from having on the field. He is a great anchor in the middle of the defensive line with great size and strength to stack and shed blockers and absorb double teams to keep his linebackers clean. One-on-ones will be a crucial part of his evaluation process, but if he uses his violent hands and burst consistently, Benton’s stock should rise.) (1-31-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-senior-bowl-preview-top-prospects-sleepers-2023/
2023 Senior Bowl: Tuesday's National Team Practice Report (Wisconsin's Keeanu Benton was another defensive tackle who helped himself on Tuesday. He was strong and quick at the point off attack. In the nine-on-seven run scrimmage, Benton did a nice job of stuffing lanes and holding his gap. While Benton did not produce a lot for the Badgers, he has NFL size and the physicality to potentially develop into a starter.) (1-31-23): https://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2023practice.php
2023 Senior Bowl preview: Burning questions for NFL scouts hitting Mobile (Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin: He earned some Round 1 grades entering the season and features a big, powerful upper body as an interior rusher, most likely from the nose. "He'll have two or three big wins where the crowd goes, 'Ooooh,' " a scout predicted. "He's tossed a few guys off the snap and he's quicker than you think.") (1-30-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-senior-bowl-preview-burning-questions-for-nfl-scouts-hitting-mobile
Senior Bowl 2023: 5 Players Flying Under The Radar (Keeanu Benton: I know, I know, Wisconsin isn’t considered a small program, but the Badgers haven’t had an interior defensive lineman drafted on day two or earlier in more than 20 years (Wendell Bryant in 2002). Benton has a good shot to flip the script. A perfect addition for teams that need pop at nose or 1-tech, Benton’s ability to run up and down the defensive line at 315 pounds is impressive. He’s got a stout anchor against double teams, an advanced repertoire of pass-rush moves, and production to boot. He amassed 10 pressures in the last month of the season with sacks in four consecutive games to end the year.) (1-30-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-sleepers/
15 Draft Prospects Lions Should Watch at Senior Bowl (DT Keeanu Benton (Wisconsin): Benton is another interior defender who could aid Detroit’s efforts against the run. He notched 4.5 sacks playing the tackle position, while posting 10 total tackles for loss. A true run-stuffer, he could fit well next to Alim McNeill in the future. (1-27-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/prospects-lions-should-watch-senior-bowl
Lions 2023 draft: 1st scouting impressions of some defensive Senior Bowl prospects (Wisconsin DT Keeanu Benton: Benton earned some notes during the season when I casually tuned into Wisconsin games. Watching him in depth was revelatory. He might already be my top choice for the interior defensive lineman the Lions need to draft. At 6-4 and a listed 315, Benton is very good at sinking his weight and anchoring against the run. He’s a nose tackle by trade, comfortable absorbing double-team blocks and letting the LBs behind him get clean vision and pursuit lanes to the ball. Benton doesn’t have the foot quickness of Detroit’s Alim McNeill, but he does have the burst after disengaging that can help create interior pressures like McNeill does. I want to see Benton win some 1-on-1 reps in the pit and do it with more than just an up-and-under move or a straight bull rush. If he does that in Mobile, Benton could very well cement himself as my preferred Lions pick in the third round — if he lasts that long. but one who can slip past a blocker with a quick swim or p) (1-26-23): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2023-draft-senior-bowl-scouting-reports-defense-prospects-preview/
Senior Bowl 2023: 5 Players With Most To Gain (Keeanu Benton: Benton was an astounding force on the interior defensive line for the Badgers as their starting nose tackle this year. He’s a 6-foot-4, 315-pound behemoth that, unsurprisingly, can generate tons of raw power at his size, which allowed him to become one of the best run stuffers in college football this year. That all being said, there are still some questions that remain about his explosiveness off the snap and pass-rushing value. Those are questions Benton could have a chance to put to rest with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl.) (1-25-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-players-who-can-rise-2023/
Top Defensive Linemen at the 2023 Senior Bowl Include Keeanu Benton, Byron Young (1. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin: Keeanu Benton is already one of the highest-rated defensive linemen at the Senior Bowl, but even he has plenty to prove in Mobile. He’s a dense 6’4″, 315-pound lineman with nose tackle capabilities who was dominant down the stretch for the Wisconsin Badgers in 2022. Benton’s run defense is phenomenal. He’s a stack-and-shed master with outrageous strength. What evaluators will watch in Mobile, however, is his pass-rushing ability in one-on-ones. Benton has violent hands and the necessary burst, but consistency will be key.) (1-23-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-defensive-linemen-at-the-2023-senior-bowl/
Senior Bowl 2023 IDL Primer: What You Need To Know (Keeanu Benton: Watching Benton attack in the run game is a sight to see. A perfect addition for teams that need pop at nose or 1-tech, Benton’s ability to run up and down the defensive line at 315 pounds is impressive. He’s got a stout anchor against double teams, an advanced repertoire of pass-rush moves, and production to boot. He amassed 10 pressures in the last month of the season with sacks in four consecutive games to end the year.) (1-18-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-idl-primer/
2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 defensive tackle prospects (8. KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN (SENIOR | 6-4, 315) (2022 Grade: 73.7, Play Style: Versatile Penetrator, Initial Round Projection: Day 2): Benton has the unique ability to get into the backfield of opposing offenses. When he pins his ears back, all 315 pounds can get moving in a hurry. It’s why he earned an 83.6 pass-rushing grade this season. Despite Benton having the length of a two-gapping nose tackle, that’s not a role I’d love him in at the next level. Holding up to double teams and playing low was an issue on tape. If you’re playing him on the nose, I’d give him the freedom to work upfield. Otherwise, Benton is probably better suited as a 3-4 defensive end.) (12-29-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-defensive-tackle-rankings
Top 10 DTs in the 2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Carter Stands Tall on the Interior (8. Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin
Keeanu Benton turned it on down the stretch in 2022, finishing his final season with 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. But in truth, the flashes of dominance have always been there. He’s just putting it all together at the right time. Benton can still do a better job managing leverage at times, and he’s not the most agile athlete for his size. But he’s a stack-and-shed master with his powerful hands and brutal strength, and he has the hand violence and initial burst to provide pass-rushing value as well.) (12-21-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/
College Football Week 13 Live Reactions, Results, and Takeaways (Keeanu Benton Starting To Catch Fire
6:05 p.m. — At times, Keeanu Benton has struggled to manage his leverage against Minnesota. But the flashes of brilliance are there for the massive nose tackle. On Minnesota’s most recent offensive drive, Benton was a key player in two early-down run stuffs, first slabbing his man with raw power, then wrenching inside for a TFL with a brutal swim move. There are several quality nose tackle prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, but none have the combination of athleticism and length that Benton has. That length affords him awe-inspiring power capacity, and his violent style only maximizes that trait. IC) (11-26-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-13-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/
Week 13 NFL Draft Prospect Battles To Watch: Cameron Ward Duels Michael Penix Jr. (Schmitz is arguably the top center in the 2023 NFL Draft, with athleticism, strength, power, leverage, and an aggressive style. Benton, however, has just as enticing of a physical profile and brings violence in both phases of the game.) (11-26-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospect-battles-to-watch-cfb-week-13-2022/
College Football Week 4 Live Reactions, Results, And Takeaways (7:55PM- The marquee game of the evening, Wisconsin-Ohio State, includes one of the better next level match ups of the day. Badgers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, who I handed a 2nd round grade before the season, goes head-to-head with Ohio State center Luke Wypler, who also has a second-round grade on my board. If you stack them I have Benton graded a smidgen ahead of Wypler. Benton has a power advantage but Wypler is explosive and moves incredibly well. In the early going it’s advantage Wypler, who could very well enter the 2023 draft. TP) (9-24-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-4-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/
College Football Week 2 Winners: Holy Cross’ Hail Mary Fuels Four FCS Shock Wins (Young, Vaughn, Perry, Harrison, Abraham, Sanders, Rhys, Robinson, Benton) (9-12-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-2-winners-the-holy-cross-hail-mary-fuels-four-fcs-shock-wins/
Big Ten 2023 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Keeanu Benton, DT | Grade: 3.85 | Projected Round: 2 - Keeanu Benton is a killer on the inside of the Badgers’ defensive line and is a lot of fun to watch on film. He’s big, powerful, and plays with a nonstop motor. Benton is not a great playmaker, though he shouldn’t be pigeonholed singularly as a gap occupier. He has the size and style to line up at nose tackle or on the inside of a 4-3 alignment. I also would not rule Benton out as a two-gap defensive end.) (8-25-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-ten-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-scouting-reports/
Top 25 Big Ten 2023 NFL Draft prospects: Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba top the list (16. DI KEEANU BENTON, WISCONSIN: Speaking of raw talent, Benton is an athletic marvel for a 6-foot-4, 317-pounder. It shows in his ability to get after the quarterback, as he earned a 74.9 pass-rushing grade a season ago. He can struggle with consistently playing low at his size, but it’s clear that his best football is still in front of him.) (7-26-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-25-big-ten-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-ohio-state-cj-stroud-jaxon-smith-njigba
Wisconsin’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Nick Herbig, Joe Tippmann (Keeanu Benton, DT: The Badgers have one of the best nose tackle prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft in Keeanu Benton. He sports a long 6’4″, 316-pound frame and has impressive lateral athleticism and initial burst. His pad level can be an issue at times, but Benton has the athleticism, power capacity, and violent disposition necessary to be disruptive on the interior. He often uses a very reliable arm-over move, but he also has enough strength and density to hold down the fulcrum on running downs.) (6-10-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/wisconsins-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-nick-herbig-joe-tippmann/
Top Wisconsin Badger Prospects to Watch for 2023 NFL Draft (Keeanu Benton DT: It was easy to see that Benton was an NFL player, dating back to his freshman season. He has NFL size and play strength to hold up at the next level. Benton will be able to play as a nose tackle and has the chance to play early on in his NFL career. The upside as a pass rusher isn't there, but Benton has the film and skill set to play for a while in the NFL.) (5-25-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/top-wisconsin-badger-prospects-to-watch-for-2023-nfl-draft
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