3 Steelers defenders primed for breakout season in 2025
These three defenders have flashed moments of greatness — but 2025 could be the year they break out and solidify themselves among the NFL's elite.
CB Joey Porter Jr.
Dec 23, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (24) reacts against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Pittsburgh won 34-11. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Porter's first two years in the NFL were filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows — but all that should change in Year 3 for the Steelers corner. The acquisition of Darius Slay Jr. should work wonders for Porter's development, as the veteran cornerback has claimed he's already taken the young Steeler under his wing.
ILB Payton Wilson
Dec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) picks up the fumble en route to scoring a defensive touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Wilson had a tremendous rookie season and has shown zero signs of slowing down this offseason — having added weight to his frame in preparation to deliver an even more impressive Year 2. The return of veteran ILB Cole Holcomb could push the young linebacker to new heights, as Wilson gears up to potentially lead the retooled Steelers defense.
NT Keeanu Benton
Aug 17, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) sacks Buffalo Bills quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (11) during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports
Benton has steadily improved every year since being drafted by the Steelers in 2023 — and there's no reason to assume that'll change in 2025, especially after the unit vastly improved this offseason through both free agency and the NFL Draft. Nose tackles may be the unsung heroes on defense, but no one will be able to deny Benton's impact this year as he pairs with Cam Heyward and rookie Derrick Harmon to form one of the league's strongest interior defensive lines.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2025 defensive breakout candidates to watch
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