Steelers' Painful Roster Decision May End Popular And Talented Veteran's Run

The Pittsburgh Steelers built unusual depth at inside linebacker, but that strength is about to create one of the most painful decisions on the entire roster. A popular and proven veteran could lose his job despite doing little to deserve it.

Cole Holcomb returned from his devastating 2023 knee injury last season and played in 14 games, completing a comeback that once appeared uncertain. Pittsburgh rewarded that perseverance by signing him to a two-year contract in March. Less than six months later, a late addition and an emerging young linebacker may have pushed him outside the final 53.

Mark Kaboly examined the crowded position on Kaboly + Mack after Pittsburgh completed its preseason against the Buffalo Bills. When identifying the most difficult potential cut, he placed Holcomb directly on the wrong side of the line.

"I think this may be your toughest cut," Kaboly said. "'Cole, 'Don't call me Cow' Holcomb, out."

The playful nickname made the prediction sound lighthearted, but the consequence would be significant. Holcomb has played 72 regular-season games and started 59 during his career with Washington and Pittsburgh. He offers legitimate experience, leadership and defensive versatility.

His recovery also created an emotional connection with Steeler Nation. Holcomb missed the remainder of the 2023 season and all of 2024 after suffering the severe knee injury against the Tennessee Titans. Returning for 14 games in 2025, including three starts, represented an impressive professional accomplishment.

However, roster decisions cannot be based entirely on perseverance or popularity. Pittsburgh must determine which linebackers create the strongest overall group while contributing distinct skills on defense and special teams. Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson are firmly established at the top of the depth chart. Queen provides veteran leadership and three-down experience, while Wilson's athleticism gives the defense exceptional range and coverage ability.

Carson Bruener strengthened his position through defensive production and special teams value. His development gives Pittsburgh a younger, less expensive option who can handle the responsibilities required from a reserve linebacker. That already leaves Holcomb competing for a limited role. The situation became even more difficult when Pittsburgh reunited with Elandon Roberts on a one-year contract during the preseason.

Roberts immediately reestablished himself as a respected voice inside the locker room. He previously started 29 games during two seasons with Pittsburgh and spent 2025 playing under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham with the Las Vegas Raiders.

"I mean, do you need five inside guys? No," Kaboly said. "You brought in Elandon Roberts, and he's very popular in the clubhouse. He's a locker-room leader already."

The Steelers did not bring Roberts back strictly because teammates enjoy having him around. He supplies a specific physical element that the other linebackers cannot replicate as naturally.

Roberts has built his career by attacking downhill, taking on blockers and meeting running backs with force. Pittsburgh can deploy him near the goal line or in short-yardage situations when the defense needs someone willing to challenge power directly.

"He can do stuff that Wilson, Queen and Bruener can't do and play that downhill, power stuff, even if it is on the goal line," Kaboly said. "I think he brings more to the table than Cole Holcomb."

Kaboly's conclusion identifies the central problem. Holcomb may be a more complete player than some typical fifth linebackers, but roster construction is not simply about ranking talent from first to fifth.

The final spots often belong to players who provide something unique. Roberts supplies power and leadership. Bruener offers youth and special teams value. Holcomb's skills overlap more closely with what Pittsburgh already receives from Queen and Wilson.

Steelers May Have To Sacrifice Quality Depth

Cutting Holcomb would still carry risk. Injuries can quickly destroy depth at one of football's most physical positions, and releasing an experienced defender could leave Pittsburgh regretting the decision later.

Keeping five inside linebackers is possible, but every additional player at one position removes a roster spot somewhere else. The Steelers must weigh Holcomb against their final defensive back, offensive lineman, receiver or quarterback rather than only comparing him with Roberts.

Would releasing Holcomb be the correct decision, or has the veteran done enough to force Pittsburgh into keeping five inside linebackers? Share your Steelers thoughts with me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and consider following for more Black and Gold coverage and discussion. 

#SteelerNation