Veteran DT returning to Steelers in 2026 after ACL tear

The 2026 NFL Draft ended in polarizing fashion, but the Pittsburgh Steelers aren't finished making moves — bringing back a familiar face to their defense.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Steelers are re-signing veteran defensive tackle Dean Lowry, adding some vital depth to their massive defensive line.

Selected by the Packers with the 137th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Lowry spent seven seasons in Green Bay, appearing in 117 games, before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2023.

Lowry originally signed a two-year deal with the Steelers on April 1, 2024, and appeared in 12 games during his debut season with Pittsburgh. He tore his ACL in training camp one month before the start of the 2025 regular season and was forced to sit out the year.

Set to make his triumphant return in 2026, Lowry joins a Steelers' defensive line featuring talented starters like Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, and Derrick Harmon, as well as pivotal depth pieces like Yahya Black, , and .