As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are focusing on addressing significant weaknesses in their defensive line. Last season's performance was disappointing, with standout player Cam Heyward overshadowed by underwhelming contributions from others like Keeanu Benton. The roster, featuring players such as DeMarvin Leal and Daniel Ekuale, lacks playmakers and is overpopulated with hybrid positions that may not effectively fill the gap left by Larry Ogunjobi.

The Steelers' draft strategy is clear: prioritize a robust run-stuffer in the first round, with names like Kenneth Grant and Darius Alexander coming into play. The current group needs help in the interior, where a true nose tackle is required to complement Benton and bolster their run defense. With potential options in later rounds as well, the Steelers aim to create a competitive and effective defensive front.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made strategic moves this offseason by signing defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale and safety Juan Thornhill to one-year contracts, aiming to bolster their defense. Ekuale, previously a starter for the New England Patriots, joins on a $2.8 million deal, with a $1.63 million signing bonus guaranteed. His contract structure likely exempts him from the compensatory draft pick formula in 2026, allowing the Steelers to retain flexibility in their draft strategy.

Thornhill, who started for the Cleveland Browns over the past two seasons, has signed for $3 million, featuring a $1.83 million guaranteed signing bonus. Though closer to the compensatory pick threshold, he too is expected to be exempt from impacting their compensatory picks. As the Steelers navigate the complexities of the compensatory pick formula, they are positioned to potentially gain more picks rather than losing any due to these signings.

Daniel Ekuale, a veteran defensive tackle formerly with the New England Patriots, has found a new home with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ekuale was a dependable depth piece for the Patriots last season, starting 16 games while amassing 52 tackles and one sack. His addition to the Steelers bolsters their already formidable defensive line, providing insurance and depth, particularly in the wake of their own offseason changes.

The Patriots have undergone significant changes to their defensive front as well, trading Davon Godchaux to the New Orleans Saints and bringing in Milton Williams from the Philadelphia Eagles. This reshaping reflects the evolving strategies under head coach Mike Vrabel, marking a departure from the previous regime's approach.

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant move in the 2025 free agency by signing veteran defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale from the New England Patriots. Ekuale, who stands at 6'3" and weighs 310 pounds, has had an impressive career, playing for teams like the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New England Patriots since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2018. In the 2024 season, he started 17 games, showcasing his potential as a valuable defensive lineman.

This acquisition comes at a crucial time for the Steelers, who have been struggling with their defensive line. The Larry Ogunjobi experiment is winding down, and the aging roster necessitates a rejuvenation. Ekuale, with his six seasons of NFL experience, has recorded six sacks, 91 tackles, and eight tackles for loss over 57 games, indicating he brings considerable strength to the defensive front. He is expected to start alongside veteran DT Cameron Heyward and NT Keeanu Benton, solidifying a crucial area of need for Pittsburgh as they also look to bolster their defensive line through the upcoming draft.

The New England Patriots are gearing up for NFL free agency with several pressing needs, particularly at wide receiver, offensive line, and defensive tackle. With Christian Barmore's uncertain future and Daniel Ekuale hitting free agency, the Patriots must address their defensive line.

They have ample cap space, making it feasible to pursue Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, who has emerged as a key player for Dallas. Signing him could significantly bolster New England's defense for the upcoming season.