Steelers New Lineman Dean Lowry Detailed That He Can Play Every Technique Needed

The Pittsburgh Steelers brought in several talented upgrades to their roster during the 2024 offseason. With names like Russell Wilson and Patrick Queen joining the team, some of the quality depth additions get overshadowed. For Dean Lowry, the Steelers' defensive lineman free agency signing, he didn't join the Steelers for the attention. In fact, the NFL veteran is eager to provide depth to a team that relies on their defense to be successful.

Lowry was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He provided Green Bay with a reliable defender until spending 2023 with the Minnesota Vikings. The defensive lineman is heading into his ninth professional season and is excited to be with the Steelers. Lowry spoke with Steelers Takeaways on Saturday to talk about his new team and the reunion he got to have with Montravius Adams.

"Overall, it’s just an iconic franchise that really values football. The culture they built here over the years is impressive. And I like the defense. It’s a versatile defense, and I’ve played and had success in a 3-4 base before – I’ve done well in that in the past...I played with Montravius Adams for four years in Green Bay – it was nice to see how well he’s been doing here."

During his career, Lowry has tallied 15.5 sacks, one interception, five recovered fumbles, and one defensive touchdown. For a depth player who understands what his role is, having that kind of production is something Lowry has built his football identity on. The veteran defender won't be competing for Defensive Player of the Year, but he is certainly a valuable piece for a Steelers' squad whose defense is their strength.

For someone like Lowry, who has spent an extended period of time in the NFL, being able to learn and grow from the coaching staff is important. Pittsburgh checked that box for him, with the defensive coaches standing out as a huge plus for the franchise. Lowry has only been with the team for a few weeks, but he has already gotten to work and is eager to start helping the team win football games.

"I’ve been in Pittsburgh now training with the team – meeting the players and coaches. Spending time in the meeting rooms and learning what the coaches expect from us...Coach [Karl] Dunbar is one of the best defensive line coaches in the NFL. He’s the standard for NFL coaches – he’s been in the NFL for 20-plus years – that’s a lot of experience."

Lowry was happy to bring his experience to the Steelers. Mike Tomlin knows how important it is to have role players and positional guys down the stretch when there is no margin for error. Heading into the 2024 campaign, the Steelers feel confident that they will be fielding a team ready to compete from start to finish. Regardless of the situation, though, when Lowry is called upon, he will be ready to give it his all.

Steelers Have Flexibility With Lowry

The Steelers don't need Lowry to be another TJ Watt; they just need him whenever the moment calls for it. The former Packers' defensive lineman recognizes how he can best produce for the team, and being that reliable depth player is key. Lowry is incredibly confident in his ability to play wherever Pittsburgh wants to place him.

"I’m versatile and experienced. I can play every technique on the line – even nose tackle. As a depth guy that’s important to know each spot. And my experience – I’ve started a lot of games in the NFL. I know what it takes to play defensive line in the NFL."

Lowry has started a total of 84 games in the NFL, which is a ton of experience brought to the Steelers' defensive line. Despite being the chief reason for the Steelers finding any success in 2023, their defense was hampered by a slew of injuries.

Cameron Heyward missed an extended period of time and the gap in both skill and leadership was sorely felt during his absence. While Lowry won't be relied on the way Heyward is, when the injuries occur, as they do in the NFL, Pittsburgh will have a depth player ready to fill the gap.

Which free agent signing from 2024 has been your favorite so far?