Pittsburgh Steelers fans have plenty to discuss after another season that ended sooner than hoped. Their final record against the spread sat at 10-7, an impressive mark for a team that finished 2nd in the AFC North. Despite missing out on a deeper run in the playoffs, they put up notable numbers in 2024. Even though the late-year schedule featured some tough contests—like the 14-28 loss at Baltimore as a +9.5 underdog—there’s growing optimism that the right moves are happening this offseason.
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Pittsburgh Steelers WR George Pickens after scoring a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in the 2024 Wild Card Round.
Some fans like to keep tabs on fresh odds for this squad, since discussions about roster changes can shift perceptions. Those who enjoy a bit of online sports betting might look for lines favoring the Steelers to bounce back in 2025, perhaps opening around +250 to make a splash in the postseason. Throw in the potential of parlay wagers that combine money lines, over-under, and props, and it adds another level of excitement for folks who like to test their luck. That excitement extends beyond just betting—it’s also about how key roster moves will shape the team’s future. And right now, one of the biggest decisions revolves around inside linebacker Cole Holcomb.
It’s worth giving plenty of credit to Pittsburgh’s front office. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network broke the story, noting that this revision on Holcomb frees up around $4 million in cap space while securing an important piece of depth on a defense that’s been battered by injuries in recent years. Holcomb, 29, arrived in 2023 on a three-year, $18 million deal and quickly proved his worth with 54 combined tackles, 2 forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and several impact plays that boosted the Steelers’ run-stopping ability.
Fans might have wondered if Pittsburgh would cut bait to save money. Holcomb had a $7.64 million cap hit set for 2025, with a release saving of around $6 million. However, the Steelers currently rank in the top seven for effective cap space and have been resourceful with their spending, carrying only $45,335 in dead money on the books, per Over The Cap.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan talks on the phone during a practice in the Steel City.
Though the 2024 campaign didn’t see any action from him due to rehabbing a serious knee injury, the Steelers took a big step by activating his 21-day practice window prior to Week 18. GM Omar Khan even mentioned that Holcomb might have suited up if Pittsburgh had advanced further in the postseason. While fans never got that opportunity to see him at full speed, his reliability was already on display in 2023. He’s capable of pushing the Steelers’ run defense closer to the top of the charts.
The biggest question is how his presence fits in with the younger faces the Steelers added last year. The front office brought in Patrick Queen, and they drafted Payton Wilson, bolstering the unit’s long-term stability. Meanwhile, Elandon Roberts was set to become a free agent and parted ways with Pittsburgh earlier this week. Having Holcomb around ensures at least one proven veteran is ready to step in.
As for the rest of the squad, Pittsburgh fans certainly recall some of the key moments of the 2024 season. The Steelers fell 10-29 to Kansas City in a holiday clash that never clicked on offense, surrendered 17-34 against Baltimore just four days prior, and dealt with a tough 13-27 loss at Philadelphia on December 15. On the flip side, they snagged a 27-14 victory over Cleveland as a -6 favorite, along with a wild 44-38 shootout in Cincinnati, despite being a +3 underdog. Those swings underscore how tricky this division remains. Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Cleveland continue to bulk up their rosters, which places a premium on Pittsburgh holding onto experienced starters.
AP
Steelers' TJ Watt sacking Joe Burrow.
One issue that bit them hard last year was the string of injuries that piled up. After suffering a severe knee injury in November of 2023, Holcomb spent an extended period rehabbing. According to this report, he was discharged from the hospital, but ruled out for the remainder of that season. Fortunately, he’s on track for better days ahead, and this fresh contract indicates the team values the depth and leadership he brings.
What's Next For The Steelers?
While there’s always chatter about who the Steelers might bring in next, it’s easy to forget they still have a core of talented playmakers. Quarterback continuity remains important, and improvements along the offensive line could spark better results for a rushing attack that ranked 11th overall.
Holcomb’s revised deal sends a message that the franchise isn’t content with letting key pieces walk away for financial reasons. Head Coach Mike Tomlin often stresses the importance of stability, and Holcomb still has the upside to produce in big moments. Fans who saw him rack up 54 tackles before his 2023 knee injury know he can be a catalyst. If he regains his stride, pairing him with the newer additions at inside linebacker could help this group climb the rankings in total defense.
