Keeanu Benton (Wisconsin)
Measurements:
Height: 6’4″ | Weight: 309 lbs
2022 Stats:
- 36 tackles
- 10 tackles for a loss
- 4.5 sacks
Keeanu Benton is a beast and a player Vikings fans should be hoping and praying somehow falls to them at pick 87. Like Mazi Smith, Benton has the ability to play nose tackle or end, and despite having a big frame, has plenty of explosion off the snap.
Benton is quick, but where he makes his living is with his power. The dude is extremely strong and uses his powerful upper body, and stout lower half to power through would-be blockers. He has loads of experience being a four-year starter for the Badgers, and facing some very solid competition in that time frame.
New Vikings’ defensive coordinator, Brian Flores mentioned how he wants to have versatile players on his defense. Benton fits that mold as he can play as a run-stuffing nose guard, or be put at end where he can ward off blockers and seal the edge.
Benton is projected to be a mid to late selection in the second round, so he’s a player that right now seems out of the Minnesota Vikings’ range. However, they could trade down and get him, or they could even package picks or players to move back up and get this versatile piece for their defensive line.