The Pittsburgh Steelers defensive line was looking to add some depth to their defensive line this offseason, but I’m not sure if any fans of the black-and-gold had Dean Lowry on their radar to be that proven depth. Nonetheless, when the Steelers signed Lowry in free agency they saw a player who was coming off a season-ending injury in 2023. So, what exactly does Lowry bring to the team?

“I think first is versatility,” Lowry said of what he brings to the Steelers. “I can play different techniques across the line of scrimmage. I think in the run game I’m very solid. I have good technique and fundamentals. I think as a pass rusher, I get good inside pocket push and can push the pocket and use my power well. It’s a variety of things. But I’m always trying to learn and add to my toolbox.”

To sum it up, Lowry is a player who has experience under his belt. He is a defensive lineman who is capable of playing multiple positions, and a lot of reasons why are because he loves to study the game of football. On top of that, even as a veteran he is always looking to improve and learn from those around him.

“I do always try to be a student of the game. It’s a new challenge here in Pittsburgh,” Lowry said. “It’s great to be around a defensive line coach like (Karl) Dunbar, who’s very well respected with his work among defensive linemen, and being around guys like Cam Heyward and T.J. (Watt) to see their approach to the game and their work ethic. You’re always learning from those guys.”

So, has the transition to Pittsburgh been that different and difficult?

“I think the terminology is similar that he kind of brought from here,” Lowry said. “I would say philosophy-wise, you can see he learned a lot from coach (Mike) Tomlin here. A lot of the things coach Tomlin teaches that we go over every single day are things that coach Flo brought to Minnesota.”

Ultimately, his familiarity with Brian Flores last year in Minnesota and his experience in Green Bay have him excited to play for the Pittsburgh for a lot of reasons.

“It’s just a really high level of defense,” Lowry said. “There are really good players on this side of the football at different levels of experience. There’s a good combination of young guys and then just proven talent.”

Lowry is no guarantee to make the roster, but he absolutely is in a driver seat based on his free agent contract and his experience. The biggest question will likely be his health more than anything else. Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for training camp in July.