One of the most underrated linebackers on the Pittsburgh Steelers defense appears to be gearing up for a much-anticipated return against the Chicago Bears in Week 12.
After missing the past three games due to illness, LB Cole Holcomb has been logged as a full participant in back-to-back practices to start the week — ideal news for a Steelers defense facing off against the Bears’ third-best rushing offense in the league.
Signing a three-year, $18 million contract back in March 2023, Holcomb tore multiple ligaments in his knee during Week 9 of his debut season with Pittsburgh. He would miss the entire 2024 season but bounced back in a major way during the Steelers’ 2025 preseason and early portions of the regular season.
If active against the Bears this Sunday, the Steelers’ defense will finally have its top four linebackers in rotation for the first time since Week 1 — featuring Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Malik Harrison, and a returning Holcomb in a pivotal showdown between two divisional leaders.
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