The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an exciting offseason, improving in nearly every area on both sides of the football. Even their special teams unit has seen upgrades at punter and kick returner. With the addition of Patrick Queen in free agency and the drafting of Payton Wilson, there is a lot of excitement surrounding their linebacker room.
If they can get Cole Holcomb back, their linebacker group will look even more formidable. Holcomb suffered a serious injury during the 2023 season in a Week 9 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Steelers fans have been eager for updates on his status.
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin spoke with the media on Wednesday and was asked if Holcomb would be practicing during training camp. Tomlin revealed that Holcomb is on track to be on the field during training camp.
"Oh, I'm sure he is, man. I don't have a lot of details about the specifics of it. But at every checkpoint, I think the experts are comfortable with his progress, and I know he's working extremely hard."
Tomlin admitted that he was uncertain about the specifics regarding Holcomb's participation in training camp. However, he expressed confidence that Holcomb would be present putting in work during camp.
The Steelers acquired Holcomb in the 2023 offseason with a three-year, $18 million contract. Prior to his knee injury, Holcomb was excelling in his role with the team. In just eight games in 2023, he accumulated 54 combined tackles, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and two passes defensed, showcasing his impactful presence on the field.
Tomlin's optimism about Holcomb's return to training camp is a positive update for fans. Despite the setback from his injury, Holcomb's performance last season demonstrated his potential to be a key contributor.
As training camp approaches, fans and teammates alike are eager to see how Holcomb will reintegrate and continue to build on his previous success. The coaching staff's belief in his capabilities highlights their anticipation for his return to full strength and the positive impact he is expected to bring to the team. No one knows the exact date that Holcomb will be cleared for game action but this is a start.
Steelers' Linebacker Room Is Going To Be Great In 2024
The Steelers' linebacker room has fans buzzing with excitement. Getting Holcomb back would be a significant boost for the team. With standout players like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Queen leading the defense from the linebacker position, the unit looks formidable. Additionally, Wilson, an exciting prospect known for his speed, has garnered high praise from pundits across the league, with some even comparing him to iconic linebackers. Elandon Roberts is also expected to build on his positive play from the 2023 season.
There is plenty of reason to be optimistic about this linebacker group. Even if Holcomb doesn't play in the 2024 season, the Steelers' linebacker room is poised to be among the best in the league. Holcomb's return would elevate the unit's potential even further. Wilson is on track to get valuable reps as a rookie, and Nick Herbig, entering his second season, is eager to carve out a more significant role for himself.
The Steelers have a storied history of dominant linebacker play, and that tradition is set to continue in 2024. While the exact timeline for Holcomb's return to game action remains uncertain, his participation in training camp is a positive sign. Fans will be eagerly awaiting more updates on his progress and eventual return to the field.
