When the Pittsburgh Steelers inked inside linebacker Cole Holcomb to a three-year contract before the 2023 season, they envisioned him as a cornerstone of their defense. However, an unfortunate knee injury midway through that campaign sidelined him for the remainder of 2023 and all of 2024. During this time, the team fortified its linebacking corps with significant additions, including free-agent Patrick Queen and rookie Payton Wilson. Despite facing competition from these players, Holcomb's journey back to health positions the Steelers favorably heading into 2025.

As the 2025 season approaches, reports indicate that Cole Holcomb has fully recovered from his severe knee injury. This recovery places Pittsburgh in a unique situation where they have multiple capable linebackers ready to contribute. The organization took proactive steps following Holcomb’s injury by bolstering their lineup with experienced and promising talent. These moves included signing Patrick Queen, drafting Payton Wilson, and bringing in Malik Harrison, ensuring depth at the position.

Holcomb’s return adds another layer of versatility to the team’s defensive strategy. Although he may not secure a starting role due to the presence of Queen and Wilson, his experience and skills make him a valuable rotational player or potential spot starter. Prior to his injury, Holcomb demonstrated exceptional performance as a three-down linebacker, accumulating numerous tackles, forced fumbles, and pass deflections in just eight games.

Beyond his statistical contributions, Holcomb brought a physicality and diagnostic acumen that complemented the team's defensive schemes effectively. His ability to read plays quickly and execute them decisively made him an indispensable asset on the field. While comparisons with current starters like Queen and Wilson suggest he might not surpass them overall, Holcomb remains one of the top four inside linebackers on the roster when fit.

The Steelers’ enhanced depth at inside linebacker provides them with flexibility and resilience moving forward. With lessons learned from previous seasons plagued by injuries, retaining Holcomb offers both security and opportunity. Training camp and preseason performances will be crucial indicators of his readiness. Should Holcomb exhibit speed and physicality akin to his pre-injury form, securing a roster spot becomes highly plausible. Conversely, if adjustments are needed, alternatives exist within the roster.

Pittsburgh finds itself well-positioned with a robust linebacking group entering 2025. Whether Cole Holcomb resumes a prominent role or fulfills a reserve capacity, his inclusion enhances the team’s defensive capabilities significantly. This scenario exemplifies prudent planning and adaptability, traits essential for sustained success in the competitive NFL landscape.