Pittsburgh — Cole Holcomb is one of the big additions to the Steelers’ defense and hopes he can help the inside linebacker turn around completely. However, Holcombe is experiencing a bit of an early turmoil en route to the regular season.
Holcomb, who played just seven games in 2022, has suffered a spate of injuries. So far, the team has been comfortable with Holcomb and will not force him to do anything that may make him feel uncomfortable at this stage. He said he has his limits, but hopes he’ll be ready when the offseason program starts to really matter.
“Well, I was a little limited,” said Holcomb. “Nothing really, I’m just taking it easy. I’m always ready when the game starts.”
Holcomb was injured on October 23 in a game between the Washington Commanders and the Green Bay Packers, was placed on the reserves on November 17, and underwent surgery in early December. So it looks like the team is still taking small steps before Holcomb gets to work in earnest.
Cole Holcomb said he doesn’t have to worry about where he stands when the preseason game against Tampa Bay takes place on Aug. 11. He will play and he will be ready soon. Holcomb doesn’t even expect to be restricted in training camp going forward, so there may be restrictions now, but the Steelers are taking enough precautions for his injuries at this point, especially after foot surgery. It seems that he is just teaching
The Steelers will likely put Holcomb directly into the starting position at one of the inside linebackers, with Ellandon Roberts at the other linebacker. With strong safety starter Terrell Edmunds and slot cornerback Cam Sutton also gone, the Pittsburgh defense has a whole new midfield for 2023.