Overview
- At OTAs on Thursday, new defensive-line coach Domata Peko said Keeanu Benton will be used at multiple interior spots rather than only as a nose tackle.
- Peko singled out second-year Yahya Black and said he could become one of the NFL’s best nose tackles if he continues to improve and refine his technique.
- Free-agent signing Sebastian Joseph-Day was praised for his ability to play end, tackle and nose, giving the staff flexible personnel options for different fronts.
- Benton enters 2026 in the final year of his rookie deal after a 2025 season that included a career-high 5.5 sacks, which raises the stakes of the new competition.
- The changes reflect a new defensive scheme under coordinator Patrick Graham and could lead to a competitive battle for starts and roster decisions as the offseason progresses.