Steelers Receive Disheartening News on Injured Linebacker
The Steelers had hoped their injured linebacker would be back for the 2024 season, but as training camp progresses, those hopes are fading.
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers were devastated when linebacker Cole Holcomb suffered a knee injury during the 2023 season. Holcomb, brought in to be a reliable starter in the middle of the defense, was sidelined in week nine and has been out since.
The Steelers were hopeful that Holcomb’s rehab would enable him to return for the start of the 2024 season, but he has yet to return to the practice field as training camp begins.
Steelers insider Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette reports a grim outlook for the linebacker. While discussing the state of the linebacker group in camp, Dulac mentioned that Holcomb is far from ready.
“Holcomb is still around, though he’s not anywhere near being able to play,” he wrote. “They might place him on IR or waive him injured,” he added.
Despite Holcomb’s situation, the Steelers remain deep at the linebacker position. They drafted Payton Wilson, who has consistently impressed since joining the team. He, star middle linebacker Patrick Queen, and veteran Elandon Roberts form a formidable trio.
The team would prefer another proven veteran on the roster. They thrived in early 2023 with Holcomb, Roberts, and Kwon Alexander rotating snaps and contributing in different ways. Even with Wilson’s high potential, relying too heavily on a rookie in the NFL is risky.
Dulac’s update is particularly discouraging because the Steelers and Holcomb believed he would be ready for 2024. Before the 2024 NFL Draft, general manager Omar Khan was vague about Holcomb’s recovery but seemed confident in his return.
Now, in the second week of training camp, the Steelers are realizing they may not have Holcomb to start the season and possibly for all of 2024. This gives newly re-signed Tyler Matakevich and Mark Robinson opportunities for larger roles, with Payton Wilson continuing to be an important contributor for the Steelers’ defense.
