The following is a look at the unrestricted free agent additions and how each might fit in with the Steelers:
COLE HOLCOMB
ILB, 6-1, 240
AP Photo/DANIEL KUCIN JR. The Steelers addressed an immediate need at inside linebacker when they added veteran Cole Holcomb, a four-year starter with the Washington Commanders. A former walk-on at North Carolina, Holcomb was a fifth-round draft pick of the Commanders in 2019, but he became an immediate contributor by starting 15 of the 16 games in his rookie season.
HOW HE FITS IN
At his pro day in 2019, Holcomb put on something of a show at a lighter 231 pounds. He ran a 4.51 in the 40, to go along with a 6.77-second three-cone drill and an 11-0 standing broad jump. That athleticism was apparent during his time in Washington. He excels in coverage. Because of that, he never leaves the field and was often the “green dot” guy for the Commanders.
In his four NFL seasons, Holcomb appeared in 50 games with 48 starts, and had 388 total tackles, 3 interceptions, 10 pass defensed, 4.5 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles. Per Pro Football Focus, opposing quarterbacks have a passer rating of 111.3 when targeting Holcomb, but that’s not so unusual for inside linebackers considering many of the throws wind up being short, easy completions.
Holcomb has the speed to turn and run with tight ends or running backs
