Week 7 Blog: Strictly Business
Oct 22, 2026 at 07:01 PM
Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
Defensive End Keeanu Benton on the Business Trip to Paris
"Coach (Mike McCarthy) made us very aware that it's a business trip," said Benton. "That goes to why we're going on Thursday, just closer to the game, just to stay focused. We're going with just enough time to get your sleep schedule right and play a game and come home."
Getting that sleep schedule right can be a challenge, but Benton remains pragmatic.
"It's tough, but that's what they pay us for," said Benton. "That's what comes with the job description, is being very adaptable. It's the test to that."
Recalling his previous trip to Europe, Benton shared, "I think I had my best game across the pond last year. So, I'm not going to complain about that. But that's just the nature of this game and what we get paid to do at this level, just be very adaptable."
Losses on the Defensive Line
The defensive line will need to show adaptability following the placement of Sebastian Joseph-Day on the Reserve/Injured List, joining Derrick Harmon on IR.
"He's a great player," said Benton. "He brought that vet mentality, and he was one of those guys that immediately you can ask him questions, and he'll have answers for you. Just those little tips and tricks to help out the younger guys, and myself included."
Joseph-Day's absence creates opportunities for rookies Gabriel Rubio and Kevin Jobity Jr. Rubio has stepped up in Harmon's absence, while Jobity has yet to make his NFL debut.
Benton has been mentoring the young players, sharing his knowledge and experience.
"My big thing is no secrets," said Benton. "I feel like they can ask me anything, and I'll tell them how I play my blocks and how I see it. It might be different from a coach's perspective, but I feel just giving them that ease and let them know that it's going to be cool, they made it to this level for a reason, is a big part of it."
Jack Sawyer on Playing in Paris
While Sawyer hasn't brushed up on his French yet, he is excited for the Steelers to take on the New Orleans Saints in Paris, France, marking the second consecutive year the Steelers will play an international game. Last year, they defeated the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland.
"I'm pumped for the opportunity," said Sawyer.