Once a 4-star, it's now time for Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman, Rayshaun Benny, to take the big leap to the NFL. As the 2026 NFL Draft is around the corner, Benny has picked up the buzz to be landing with a $6.5 billion AFC Franchise.

Benny, standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 298 pounds, could be a sleeper pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as reported by Steelers Wire's Andrew Vasquez. He is projected to be a fifth-round pick while the Steelers hold the No. 161 pick in that round, along with twelve other picks.

How does Benny fit into the Steelers' defense? Talking about the former Michigan player's strengths, he comes off as a package, being a strong run defender and an excellent tackler.

Over his five seasons in Ann Arbor, he came up with 53 solo tackles and 12 tackles for loss in 54 games played. When it's about using good length and strengthening to shed blocks with ease, Benny is the one to count on.

His solid footwork is a big USP, making the Steelers already show interest in him.

"The #Steelers held formal combine meetings with the following prospects today," reported Steelers Draft HQ, followed by a list of players on February 26.

Along with Benny, CJ Allen, Caleb Downs, Kayden McDonald, among others, also picked up interest from the Steelers.

Benny also had five passes defended and four sacks to his name, while also forcing one fumble. As per his draft and combine prospect profile, Benny received a score of 5.96.

One of the concerns that might lead the Steelers to think twice about including Benny is his injury history. The defensive linemen underwent knee surgery in high school. Then in 2023, he suffered from a broken fibula.

What Are Experts Saying About Rayshaun Benny?

The famous sports analyst and commentator, Lance Zierlein, shared his take on Benny. 

“Benny is a tricky evaluation as a 3-technique," he dropped his analysis. "He has good length and is consistent entering into block battles. He’s an effective two-gapper who locates the ball-carrier and quickly sheds."

With his stature, he brings adequate length and bulk for the interior but lacks the classic nose tackle frame. He profiles as a 3-tech/4i hybrid whose game is driven by technique, leverage, and hand work more than raw burst.

If the Steelers draft Benny, he will join Cameron Heyward and Esezi Otomewo.

Will the Pittsburgh Steelers use their fifth-round pick to draft the Michigan star? Share your thoughts.

Read more at Michigan Football Community.

Written by

Samvruth Raj

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar