The NFL has quietly lifted a five-game suspension on Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale, ending a controversial chapter for the sidelined veteran just as the offseason looms.
Ekuale, already out for the year with a torn ACL, served the penalty while on injured reserve. The league imposed the ban in late November for violating its performance-enhancing substances policy. He remained inactive throughout, but the reinstatement removes any lingering restrictions heading into free agency.
Timeline of Events
Ekuale suffered a knee injury during a Week 8 loss to the Green Bay Packers in October 2025.
He played in seven games before going down, contributing six tackles and one quarterback hit as a rotational nose tackle.
The suspension hit on November 25, marking his second career PED violation.
- Previous bans: Four games in 2018 with Cleveland.
- This one: Five games in 2025.
The NFL lifted it in late December, with no public fanfare.
Ekuale’s Steelers Tenure
Pittsburgh signed the 31-year-old to a one-year deal in March 2025, hoping he would bolster run defense depth.
He joined after three seasons with New England, where he started regularly in 2024.
In black and gold, Ekuale filled a backup role behind emerging rookies.
Key stats from his brief stint:
- 72 defensive snaps
- Six combined tackles
- Two tackles for loss
- One pass defended
The nose tackle spot saw high turnover, but young players stepped up after his exit.
Rookie Impact on Defensive Line
With Ekuale sidelined, 2025 draft picks Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black took over. Both delivered strong performances for first-year players.
They helped stabilize the unit amid injuries and changes. This youth movement eased the blow from losing the veteran early.
What Lies Ahead
Ekuale hits free agency in March, his fourth team switch in a journeyman career. The injury and repeat violation likely dim return chances to Pittsburgh.
Teams may weigh his experience against health risks and policy history. Clearing the suspension allows him to pursue new deals without overhang.
This case highlights ongoing league efforts to enforce substance rules, even for injured players. It also shows how depth plans can shift quickly in a long season.
