After two failed outings, the Pittsburgh Steelers are shaking up the defensive depth chart for Sunday’s Week Three game against the New England Patriots. ILB Cole Holcomb and SS Jabrill Peppers have expanded roles today. Holcomb and Peppers are starting in the team’s base 3-4 defense, replacing ILB Payton Wilson and SS Chuck Clark.
Immediately, the change paid off. Holcomb forced a fumble on RB Rhamondre Stevenson on the opening possession, recovered by CB Darius Slay for the early takeaway.
Pre-game, The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo noted the new look in warmups. He also noted rookie Yahya Black received starting reps at left defensive end, getting the nod over Derrick Harmon in his first NFL game.