Report: Veteran Defender Changes Mind About Signing With Steelers Amid Torn ACL Recovery

TL;DR

Veteran defensive lineman Dean Lowry was expected to re-sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers after recovering from a torn ACL, but reports indicate that his return is now uncertain.

Key points

Dean Lowry was expected to re-sign with the Steelers.
He missed the 2025 season due to a torn ACL.
His return to Pittsburgh is now uncertain.

Dean LowryPittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Dean Lowry

Report: Veteran Defender Changes Mind About Signing With Steelers Amid Torn ACL Recovery originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It was reported on Sunday that veteran defensive lineman Dean Lowry was re-signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers after missing the 2025 season with a torn ACL.

Multiple reports said Tuesday, however, that Lowry's potential return to Pittsburgh is on hold.

"Upon further review: Dean Lowry has decided to take a little more time to work into playing shape. He did not take a physical, but he has been fully cleared from last season’s injury," NFL Network national insider Ian Rapoport posted on X.

"Veteran defensive lineman Dean Lowry, who agreed to a one-year deal with #Steelers previously and is fully medically cleared, not signing today as he continues to work at getting in optimal football shape, per a league source. Previously #Vikings #Packers Lowry is a 6-6, 296-pound former fourth-round pick from Northwestern who has recorded 271 career tackles, 17 1/2 sacks and five fumble recoveries with one interception ," KPRC 2 's Aaron Wilson wrote on X.

Q&A

What caused Dean Lowry's change of mind about signing with the Steelers?

Dean Lowry's change of mind is reportedly due to uncertainties surrounding his recovery from a torn ACL.

When did Dean Lowry miss the season due to his injury?

Dean Lowry missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn ACL.

What is the current status of Dean Lowry's potential return to the Steelers?

Dean Lowry's potential return to the Pittsburgh Steelers is currently on hold, according to multiple reports.