PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are bolstering their defensive front by signing former New England Patriots defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale, according to his agent Blake Baratz, who shared the news on social media.
The Steelers had been in need of help at defensive tackle following the departure of Larry Ogunjobi. The 30-year-old veteran was released at the start of free agency and later signed with the Buffalo Bills. Shortly after, he was suspended for six games due to a violation of the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.
Since Ogunjobi’s exit, Pittsburgh has been searching for his replacement—and they might have found one in Ekuale.
The 31-year-old Ekuale started 16 games for New England last season, tallying 52 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack. Over his career, he has appeared in 57 games, making 21 starts, and has accumulated 91 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and six sacks.
Congrats to these two dudes. Bringing some juice to a D Line near you. You boys deserve it, @steelers and @Commanders got better again today!
Congrats Dan and J. Let’s do this pic.twitter.com/qqLiPqGWxo
— Blake Baratz (@blakebaratz) March 17, 2025
At 310 pounds, Ekuale should be able to step in as a dependable option for Pittsburgh. The Steelers are expected to further strengthen their defensive line during the 2025 NFL Draft, having already met with top first-round prospects like Michigan’s Kenneth Grant and Ole Miss’ Walter Nolen at the NFL Combine. If the team intends to draft a starter, Ekuale offers solid depth. If they don’t, he gives them another viable starting option for the upcoming season.
He’ll join a defensive line rotation that now features Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Montravius Adams, DeMarvin Leal, Dean Lowry, and Logan Lee.
