Injury Update: Pittsburgh Steelers’ Cole Holcomb Injury Revealed to be More Complex Than Believed.
The Pittsburgh Steelers may be confronting a more significant challenge than initially anticipated with linebacker Cole Holcomb’s injury. Sidelined with a left knee injury during the 2023 season, Holcomb’s expected return for Week 1 has become increasingly uncertain as time progresses.
Despite inquiries from the media, both head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan have remained tight-lipped regarding Holcomb’s status, offering minimal updates on his recovery. ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, speaking on the Adam and Gold Show, suggested that the injury, initially believed to be an ACL tear, could be more complex than previously thought.
According to Pryor, “My understanding is it’s not just a simple ACL tear, and they’re being very vague on what the specific injury is.”
In response to the uncertainty surrounding Holcomb’s availability, the Steelers bolstered their linebacker corps during free agency by acquiring Patrick Queen and selecting Payton Wilson with their second third-round pick. This strategic move ensures depth at the position, with Queen, Wilson, Elandon Roberts, and Mark Robinson prepared to step in if necessary.
“This is in some ways insurance for the Cole Holcomb signing,” Pryor noted, “and gives them a starting-caliber inside linebacker to play when the season gets started, because Holcomb’s recovery timeline isn’t quite clear.”
As the Steelers gear up for offseason activities, including OTAs and minicamp, slated for May and June respectively, uncertainty looms over Holcomb’s participation. With training camp scheduled to commence in July, Holcomb’s availability for the team’s offseason program remains uncertain.
