Just before the free agency period opened, the Steelers quickly retained one of their most reliable players following a breakout season and recognition as a Pro Bowl alternate

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Just hours before the NFL free agency market officially opened, the Pittsburgh Steelers quickly finalized an important decision. The team is expected to extend the contract of linebacker Cole Holcomb, keeping one of their most trusted defensive players on the roster.

According to reporter Ari Meirov, the Steelers have reached an agreement with Holcomb on a new contract that will last two years and be worth about $5 million. The move comes just before NFL Free Agency 2026 begins, showing that Pittsburgh’s front office wants to quickly stabilize depth at the linebacker position.

Holcomb originally joined the Steelers in March 2023 on a three-year contract. However, during his first season in Pittsburgh he suffered a serious knee injury involving multiple ligaments, forcing him to miss the remainder of the 2023 season and the entire 2024 season.

After a long recovery, Holcomb returned to the field during the 2025 season. Although he primarily played a backup role behind starting linebackers Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen, he still made an impact with 37 tackles in eight games, proving his value within the defensive system.

Before the injury, Holcomb was widely regarded as one of the league’s most effective tackling linebackers. His ability to read plays quickly, play with discipline, and consistently appear in the right position made him the type of defender that coaches rely on.

“Pittsburgh believed in me even when I was at the most difficult point of my career. That’s why I will keep fighting for this jersey, for this locker room, and for this city. My work here isn’t finished.”

Keeping Holcomb for two more years also carries long-term strategic importance. With the future of Patrick Queen in Pittsburgh still uncertain — as he could become a potential cap casualty — the Steelers are ensuring they still have an experienced and dependable linebacker to maintain stability in their defense for the seasons ahead.