The Pittsburgh Steelers are under pressure to strengthen their defensive line, particularly alongside established players Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton. The team's recent free agency moves focused primarily on bolstering the wide receiver position, leaving a gap in their defensive assets. Among prospects eyeing the 2025 NFL Draft is Walter Nolen III from Ole Miss, a noted first-round candidate.

Nolen, who previously played at Texas A&M, showcased impressive performance metrics during his time at Ole Miss, culminating in 48 tackles and 6.5 sacks in his final collegiate season. While he possesses remarkable raw power and agility, there are concerns regarding his technical skills, particularly in pass-rushing. The Steelers might consider Nolen as a potentially long-term solution to enhance their defensive strategy, though he may need time to develop under the tutelage of experienced veterans.

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a notable decision at the University of Michigan's pro day by sending defensive coordinator Teryl Austin while GM Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin were absent. Their focus was on free-agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who was visiting the Steelers facility. Austin's primary interest was defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, an athletic powerhouse who excelled alongside Mason Graham last season. Grant's impressive stats from 2024, including three sacks and two fumble recoveries, suggest he could be a strong candidate for the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft, potentially solidifying the Steelers' interior defense alongside Keeanu Benton.

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 Pittsburgh Steelers face a challenging matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15, as they will be missing two key defenders due to injuries. Safety DeShon Elliott and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi have both been ruled out after sustaining groin injuries in the previous game against the Cleveland Browns.

With Elliott sidelined, Damontae Kazee is set to step in alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick, who may take on a more aggressive role. The defensive tackle position will see Dean Lowry or Isaiah Loudermilk replacing Ogunjobi. Additionally, George Pickens is also out with a hamstring injury.

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin praised Saquon Barkley, highlighting his speed, agility, and overall skill as a complete player ahead of their matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Tomlin emphasized the need for his team to focus if they hope to contain Barkley, who is having a standout season and is on track to challenge the single-season rushing record.

Defensive players like Elandon Roberts and Patrick Queen are key to the Steelers' strategy, as they prepare to face an Eagles team led by Barkley and quarterback Jalen Hurts.