The Pittsburgh Steelers, despite having one of the NFL’s most anemic offenses, keep finding ways to win.
Kenny Pickett threw a late touchdown pass to Diontae Johnson last night, which proved to be the eventual game-winning score in a close, 20-16 Steelers victory over the Tennessee Titans.
Despite Pittsburgh struggling to find a strong offensive rhythm, its defense is a major reason it’s 5-3 in a crowded AFC North.
One of the top producers on that defense is former UNC linebacker Cole Holcomb, who’s second on the Steelers with 52 tackles. Holcomb shined at Carolina from 2015-2018, helping the Tar Heels win the ACC Coastal Division in 2015 and leading them in tackles from 2016-2018.
Unfortunately for Holcomb, his NFL season might be cut short.
In pursuit of Titans star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, Holcomb’s left leg got bent in all wrong directions when teammate Keanu Neal was making a tackle.
If you are grossed out by sports injuries, this is one you won’t want to watch.
According to Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, Holcomb’s injury is serious. This is code for “Holcomb probably won’t play another down this year.”
Steelers’ HC Mike Tomlin told reporters that Cole Holcomb’s knee injury is, as feared, “serious” and added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with him.” pic.twitter.com/6gy0e5eGlS
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 3, 2023
How great of an impact will Holcomb’s injury have in the Steel City? Not as much as you might think.
Holcomb is the Steelers’ listed starter at left inside linebacker, but he has a very capable backup in Elandon Roberts. The former New England Patriot and Miami Dolphin, Roberts has 465 tackles and 12.5 sacks across 7.5 seasons.
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