Here are the three biggest surprises from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first four games, ahead of their Week 5 bye.
Steelers fans rejoice — Pittsburgh’s bye week is almost over, and with it comes the return of action-packed Steel City football. But before we prepare for the Steelers' Week 6 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, it’s worth looking back at some of the shocking early-season standouts who helped push Pittsburgh to an impressive 3-1 record.
Through the first four games of the season, these Steelers haven’t just exceeded expectations — they’ve shattered them. Here’s a look at three of these welcome surprises as we exit the bye week.
CB Brandin Echols
Echols has truly cemented himself as one of Pittsburgh's best cornerbacks — which, considering the talent level of the secondary, is an impressive feat in itself. Considered a roster-bubble candidate by some, Echols has more than silenced the doubters through four games this season and will look to continue making an impact on Pittsburgh's defense as the season treads on.
RB Kenneth Gainwell
Many were flabbergasted when Gainwell was named the RB2 over third-round rookie Kaleb Johnson — which makes his early success all the more incredible. Gainwell has averaged at least 4 yards per rush attempt over the past three games, including his Week 4 breakout where he ran for 99 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries. He has positioned himself for a larger workload moving forward — a welcome surprise as the Steelers continue to reshape their offensive identity.
LB Cole Holcomb
![Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) causes Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Parker Washington (11) to lose the ball during the first half of the first preseason game where the Jacksonville Jaguars hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers Saturday Aug. 9, 2025, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]](https://media.zenfs.com/en/pittsburgh_steelers_wire_usa_today_sports_articles_164/3917750ffad9656e64564028d7f29522)
Holcomb's resurgence has been nothing short of heartwarming. After suffering a devastating season-ending knee injury that held him out of action for over a year, some wondered if he'd ever return to full form. It's safe to say, through a terrific preseason and four solid regular-season games, Holcomb looks fully revitalized and ready to contribute for the long season ahead — deserving of a starting role opposite LB Patrick Queen as the defense finds its way.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers’ bye week: Top 3 surprises through four games
Category: Football
