Ekuale earned a starting role with the Patriots after joining the team four years ago. He initially contributed as a reserve across his first three seasons, then started all 16 games he appeared in during the 2024 campaign. Over his four-year tenure in New England, Ekuale posted 74 combined tackles, including six for a loss, eight quarterback hits, five sacks, one pass defensed, and one forced fumble. In the 2024 season, he accumulated 52 tackles, two for a loss, three quarterback hits, and one sack.
Before landing with the Patriots, Ekuale began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent with the Cleveland Browns in 2018. He spent time on the Browns’ practice squad and later faced a four-game suspension for a violation of the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy. He made his NFL debut with Cleveland in 2019, appearing in seven games and recording four tackles, one of which was a tackle for a loss. Ekuale continued his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020 before signing with the Patriots ahead of the 2021 season.
During his time with New England, Ekuale appeared in 41 regular-season games, the most he played for any single team in his career. His total NFL playoff experience also occurred with the Patriots in 2021. In 2025, he opened the season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, appearing in seven games before the team placed him on injured reserve. Reports indicated he then received a suspension under the league’s PED policy, and he has remained a free agent since March of that year.
The recent 49ers workout represents another opportunity for Ekuale to continue pursuing a place on an NFL roster. Teams across the league periodically evaluate veteran defensive linemen in search of depth and rotational help, particularly players who can contribute in run defense and offer front-line experience. Ekuale’s background as a versatile interior lineman who can play multiple spots along the line could be appealing to a 49ers defense that typically emphasizes versatility on the front seven.
While the outcome of the tryout remains unspecified, Ekuale’s NFL journey demonstrates a persistent effort to remain in football at the highest level. He has shown resilience through multiple team transitions, injuries, and disciplinary events, continuing to showcase his ability to contribute as a professional defensive lineman.
In sum, Ekuale’s latest steps reflect the ongoing process many veterans face in extending their careers in a league that continually emphasizes competition, health, and depth across all positions. As teams evaluate their rosters and look for adaptable players to fill opening spots, Ekuale’s experience and performance history keep him in consideration for potential opportunities in the near future.
