Cole Holcomb is now a former member of the Washington Commanders. The free-agent linebacker agreed to a three-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers after four seasons in Washington.
Holcomb became a main cog in Washington’s defense, starting 48 games. He earned the Mike linebacker position full-time in 2021, posting a career-high 142 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. Last season he led the way through seven games with 69 tackles before suffering a season-ending foot injury.
News of Holcomb’s departure didn’t go over well with a couple of his now former teammates.
Commanders safety Kamren Curl tweeted, “Not 55” with a side eye emoji. Washington’s defensive end Montez Sweat seconded the notion by twisting “Right.”
Cole Holcomb was liked by his teammates and became a defensive captain. He emerged from a fifth-round draft pick in 2019 to the team’s most consistent linebacker during his four seasons. His presence in the middle was just as important as any other position on defense. The Commanders wanted to re-sign Holcomb. Yet, the two sides remained apart on money.
As John Keim of ESPN explained, the Commanders are not looking to pay top dollar for the linebacker position. The team feels they can find a suitable replacement with a modest deal.
Washington already has agreed to a one-year, $3.5 million with former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Cody Barton. Barton was a third-round draft pick in 2019 out of Utah. He started a career-high 11 games last season, recording 136 tackles and two interceptions.
It’s unclear if Washington deems him as Holcomb’s replacement or if the team will go after another option. Either way, for now, the loss of No. 55 is going over well with some Commanders players.
