The Steelers are 6-2, sitting in a position where most teams would be looking to add before the November 10 trade deadline. Pittsburgh still might do that. But according to one NFL insider, the team is also at least considering a move that would send a veteran out the door.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer identified linebacker Cole Holcomb as a possible trade candidate, writing, “Then there’s the Steelers, who, again, are sniffing around at receiver, and could deal veteran LB Cole Holcomb,” Breer wrote.
Holcomb has barely factored into Pittsburgh’s plans this season, with just one tackle and four assisted. He’s been with the Steelers since 2023, and his 2024 campaign was wiped out by a knee injury.
Even with Holcomb in a reserve role, it’s a notable possibility for a team trying to stay in the mix with a 42-year-old quarterback and a shot to win its division for the second straight year. At the same time, Pittsburgh’s inside linebacker group has held up better than expected. Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen have both turned in what could be their strongest seasons with the club.
The issue comes after those two. The depth behind them is thin, which makes any potential Holcomb move more interesting as the deadline approaches.
For now, the Steelers’ path remains unclear. They could still be buyers.
They could also make a smaller move involving one of their defensive veterans. Either way, Breer’s report suggests Pittsburgh is at least weighing its options.
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