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Veteran Steelers DT Suffered Torn ACL, Out For Entire 2025 Season

The Pittsburgh Steelers have confirmed a major blow to their defensive lineup as veteran defensive tackle Dean Lowry has suffered a torn ACL during training camp, ruling him out for the entire 2025 NFL season.

Dean Lowry

Lowry sustained the injury during a recent training camp session, with subsequent medical examinations revealing a complete tear of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The team announced that Lowry will miss the entire 2025 season, a significant setback for both the player and the Steelers’ defensive plans.

Steelers' Dean Lowry addresses knee injury in heartfelt post – WPXI

This injury is a heavy loss for the Steelers’ defense, which counted on Lowry’s experience and versatility along the defensive front. The absence of a proven veteran like Lowry not only weakens Pittsburgh’s depth but also puts added pressure on younger players and newcomers to step up. ACL injuries are among the most serious in football, often requiring surgery and months of intensive rehabilitation. The Steelers’ coaching staff now faces the challenge of adjusting their defensive rotation and seeking replacements to fill the gap left by Lowry’s absence.

Steelers place DT Dean Lowry on IR, replace him with Breiden Fehoko - Yahoo  Sports

Sharing his feelings on social media, Dean Lowry wrote:
“During a training camp practice last week I sustained an ACL injury that will likely end my season. Hard to comprehend the thoughts and emotions I have felt since then. Heartbroken I won’t get to fully experience the highs and lows of an NFL season with a group I love going to work with.”
He added, “The risks associated with this game and the unique aspect of a football team are what make this sport like no other. I’m completely resolved to attack my recovery and support my teammates however I can.”

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Dean Lowry, a seasoned defensive tackle, was signed by the Steelers to bolster their defensive line with leadership and stability. Known for his durability and consistent performance over previous seasons, Lowry’s experience was expected to play a key role in mentoring younger linemen and anchoring Pittsburgh’s interior defense. The Steelers have faced injury challenges in the past, but losing a player of Lowry’s caliber just before the regular season presents a new obstacle.

Dean Lowry: News, Stats, Bio & More - NBC Sports

As the Steelers regroup and look for answers, Lowry’s injury is a reminder of the unforgiving nature of football and the resilience demanded from every player. The organization, teammates, and fans will rally behind Lowry as he embarks on his road to recovery, and the team will need its next-man-up mentality to remain competitive. Supporters are encouraged to send messages of encouragement to Lowry and keep faith in the Steelers’ spirit heading into the 2025 season.

Steelers Part Ways With Former Super Bowl Champion Just Two Weeks After Signing
Pittsburgh, PA – October 8, 2025 The Pittsburgh Steelers have made another surprising roster move ahead of Week 6, parting ways with a veteran defender barely two weeks after signing him. The move comes as the team officially adds running back and return specialist Raheem Blackshear to the practice squad. The player released was linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, a seasoned interior tackler who brought championship pedigree and leadership to the locker room. His release was confirmed Tuesday through the team’s official social media channels. Bentley, 28, had spent his entire career with the New England Patriots before arriving in Pittsburgh in mid-September. Over 85 career games and two playoff appearances, he recorded more than 510 total tackles , 10+ sacks, two interceptions, and four forced fumbles. He also earned a Super Bowl ring as a rookie during the 2018–19 season, the final championship run of Tom Brady in New England. When Pittsburgh brought him in, many expected Bentley to fill the role once held by fellow former Patriot Elandon Roberts, who departed in free agency. With Malik Harrison sidelined, Bentley was seen as a smart veteran addition to stabilize the middle of the defense. However, his stint was short-lived. Despite his experience and physicality, Bentley reportedly failed to make a strong impression during practice sessions, prompting the coaching staff to explore other options. The Steelers remain confident in their current linebacker corps, led by Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, and rookie Carson Bruener. Jon Rhattigan continues to provide depth from the practice squad. Now sitting 3–1 and leading the AFC North, the Steelers are focusing on maintaining flexibility as injuries emerge elsewhere on the roster. For Bentley, the move marks yet another unexpected turn — from signing with a contender to being released — all within the span of two weeks.