The North Shore Drive

On the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to look back at the team's history of contract hold-ins since Le'Veon Bell's disastrous hold out several years ago. Have stars like T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward found a tactic that works more successfully in achieving their desired results in negotiations? How much leverage would Joey Porter Jr. have if he does not reach an agreement before training camp begins next week? Why did Nick Herbig choose not to hold in and sign an extension after many speculated he could be a candidate to sit out of practices at Saint Vincent College? And how have GM Omar Khan and the Steelers been able to hold the line in some talks with players like Heyward last season and former receiver Diontae Johnson? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder which players will be most interesting to watch during training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Is Germie Bernard by far the most integral rookie from an NFL draft class that also includes Max Iheanachor, Drew Allar, Gennings Dunker and Daylen Everette? How does Jalen Ramsey's role in the secondary look poised to grow? Will Pat Freiermuth finally be unlocked within coach Mike McCarthy's offense alongside QB Aaron Rodgers and receivers DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.? And will Jamel Dean prove himself to be the best running mate for Joey Porter Jr. at cornerback? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to assess the contract extension chances of 2024 NFL draft class members. Does Troy Fautanu deserve franchise left tackle money already? Or does he have more to prove to GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy? Is Zach Frazier a lock to secure top five money at the center position? Does Roman Wilson have any chance at a second contract as he faces stiff receiver competition from DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard? How much could Payton Wilson earn with Patrick Queen's future up in the air at inside linebacker? And will there be enough money left for Mason McCormick at guard come next summer? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder possible moves for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy ahead of training camp in a couple of weeks. Could a deal still be struck to send a highly paid outside linebacker like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith or Nick Herbig to another team? Or would that weaken the 2026 team too much? Could Patrick Queen be moved, as his 2027 return to the roster seems increasingly unlikely? And is there any other potential move that could rival what Khan did last summer in dealing Minkah Fitzpatrick to acquire Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith? Our duo tackles those questions, then gets into thornier roster questions. Is a veteran like Mekhi Becton and option in free agency amid the uncertainty at guard? Or do the Steelers have enough belief in internal options like Gennings Dunker, Spencer Anderson and Brock Hoffman? Where does Ray feel contract extension talks stand with Joey Porter Jr.? And will we see a lack of depth moves this summer given the presence of a large rookie class that includes a lot of Day 3 NFL draft picks like Kaden Wetjen, Eli Heidenreich, Robert Spears-Jennings and Gabriel Rubio? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss changes new coach Mike McCarthy may bring to the offense this season. Could more first-down passing be the secret sauce to unlocking more success on that side of the ball? And how will that success manifest for QB Aaron Rodgers and pass catching options including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth, Germie Bernard, Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders whether a recent ranking of pass rushers that had Steelers star T.J. Watt at No. 7 is accurate unfair. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter ponder how the Steelers' Aaron Rodgers stacks up against other older QBs who won Super Bowls late in their careers. Where does Rodgers rank alongside names like John Elway, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning? Is the roster around him that includes names like T.J. Watt, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward, Michael Pittman Jr. and Jaylen Warren enough to get him over the top? Especially with a new coaching staff led by Mike McCarthy? Or were those Broncos and Buccaneers teams of the past that lifted those past QBs to glory better than what GM Omar Khan has assembled this offseason? Our duo tackles those questions. Then Chris offers insight on what he's seen from seventh-round NFL draft pick Eli Heidenreich on film. And ponders the future for the rookie class that also includes Drew Allar, Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor and Germie Bernard after looking at some of their collect production up close. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter ponder which members of the team's 2025 NFL draft class are capable of making Year 2 leaps in performance. Can Derrick Harmon raise the high bar from his rookie season? And possibly pick of the mantle of leadership from fellow defensive lineman Cam Heyward? Will Kaleb Johnson be able to bounce back and find his way at running back next to Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren? And where does Jack Sawyer fit within the crowded outside linebacker group that also includes T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig? Our duo tackles those questions, then considers the future of other Day 3 picks. Can Yahya Black prove that he is more than quality depth along the defensive line? Must Will Howard prove himself a capable backup to Aaron Rodgers during the exhibition schedule? And how much pressure is on seventh-round picks Donte Kent and Carson Bruener with a large rookie class coming in? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley gives his report card for the club. This show is presented by FanDuel. What grade did the struggling rotation led by Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Braxton Ashcraft, Bubba Chandler and Jared Jones receiver? Did manager Don Kelly's bullpen show any meaningful improvement? Or did it lose ground? Has Endy Rodriguez seized the starting catching job for good? What did infielders including Brandon Lowe, Ryan O'Hearn and Spencer Horwitz show? And how did Bryan Reynolds and the outfield group grade out amid an injury to Oneil Cruz? Colin tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles take stock of how the Steelers match up with Pittsburgh's others pro sports teams in terms of chances to win the city's next championship. Do playmakers including Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward Joey Porter Jr. and Jaylen Warren give coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan enough to compete for the Super Bowl this year? Or do the Pirates have an edge in the young talent needed with Paul Skenes, Konnor Griffin, Braxton Ashcraft and others. And what kind of future do the Steelers have after 2026? Are Porter and young offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick enough to build a consistent contender around? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter discuss colleague Gerry Dulac's reporting on the Steelers' contract negotiations with Joey Porter Jr. Is there a chance the two sides won't reach an agreement on an extension before the season? How much is Porter Jr. realistically worth compared to other top corners like Patrick Surtain II, Derek Stingley Jr., Trent McDuffie and Sauce Gardner? And do the Steelers need him in their secondary with veterans like Jamel Dean and Jalen Ramsey aging and young players like Daylen Everette still finding their way? Our duo tackles those questions. Then later, Chris details his research on how realistic Mike McCarthy's goal of 55 touches per game can be for skill players including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Jaylen Warren. And he explains how he feels Robert Spears-Jennings fits into Patrick Graham's defense following his most recent film study on the PG website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles ponder reasonable expectations for the Steelers' defense as it enters the 2026 season as the NFL's most expensive yet again. Are fans entitled to expect elite results from T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig as they lead the unit on lucrative contracts? Or is it more complicated than that as new DC Patrick Graham takes the reins from departed coaches Mike Tomlin and Teryl Austin on coach Mike McCarthy's first-year staff? Our duo tackles those question, then wonders whether QB Aaron Rodgers will continue to rely on short passes like he did in 2025. Or look to push the ball downfield more to an improved pass catching group that includes names like Germie Bernard, Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, Rico Dowdle, Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter discuss DK Metcalf's upside within the Steelers' offensive in 2026. How much will the star WR benefit from the return of Aaron Rodgers at QB and the arrival of offensively focused head coach Mike McCarthy? Will defenses be able to focus on him less than they did in 2025 because of Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard joining the receivers room? And what are reasonable totals to expect from him alongside other receiving threats including Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Roman Wilson, Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders new DC Patrick Graham's plans for the safety group. How will he mimic the choices coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin made last season? And how could he differ in how he uses names like Jalen Ramsey, Jaquan Brisker, DeShon Elliott and Darnell Savage? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly Pirates mailbag video, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: How will manager Don Kelly and GM Ben Cherington handle the catching situation following the Joey Bart trade that leaves Henry Davis and Endy Rodriguez front and center? Are Jared Jones and Carmen Mlodzinski being handled correctly? Or are they being given too big a say in their usage? What is standing between Konnor Griffin and a healthy return to the lineup? And is DH Marcell Ozuna beginning to figure things out at the plate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles react to news this week that Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby will enter the NFL supplemental draft this summer. Should coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan consider Sorsby as another possible successor to Aaron Rodgers after 2026? Or should they stand by their current duo of young QBs in Drew Allar and Will Howard? And what other options would they have to pursue a franchise QB after this season, when names including Dante Moore, Arch Manning and Jayden Maiava are expected to be available in the 2027 NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley details his conversation with reigning Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes about the state of MLB's current labor negotiations and the possibility that games could be lost in the 2027 season. He also explains the competing proposals and the implications of each on the Pirates. Would owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly be better able to compete in a salary cap system? Would it be more likely for stars like Skenes, Bryan Reynolds, Oneil Cruz, Braxton Ashcraft and Konnor Griffin to stay in Pittsburgh long term? And would the team be able to make more impact signings like Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn in free agency? Colin tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter wrap up Steelers OTAs with a focus on the 2026 NFL draft class. How should this group be viewed with Germie Bernard still the only player expected to contribute quickly? Can Max Iheanachor, Drew Allar, Gennings Dunker and/or Daylen Everette accelerate their respective timelines and make impacts the way names like Joey Porter Jr., Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Keeanu Benton, Mason McCormick and Derrick Harmon have in recent years under GM Omar Khan? And are we sleeping on the potential of specialist players like Kaden Wetjen, Eli Heidenreich and Riley Nowakowski to stand out within their roles? Our duo tackles those questions and more as new coach Mike McCarthy's first team starts to take shape around established stars like DK Metcalf, Aaron Rodgers, T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the team's moves with its 2023 NFL draft class. Are new deals for LB Nick Herbig and TE Darnell Washington a sign of how much GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy believe in that group over the long run? Will Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton also get new deals this summer? And if so, will those players form the team's new core of stars, replacing the old guard led by Aaron Rodgers, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and DK Metcalf? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the defense's future. How long will it remain the highest paid unit on that side of the ball in the NFL? Will the spending outlast the tenures of names like Ramsey, Watt and Heyward in Pittsburgh? Or will spending start flowing more to the offensive side of the ball and names like Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, Zach Frazier, Jaylen Warren and others who could be up for new contracts in the next couple of years? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss coach Mike McCarthy's old-school ideas for tight ends Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth. Can a 1990s-style role within the offense work for that duo with Aaron Rodgers at QB and an improved set of pass catchers including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Germie Bernard, Roman Wilson and Jaylen Warren around them? And how capable is the current roster of playing that more physical style of the past? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks QBs and how pivotal this summer could be for Will Howard as he looks to prove he deserves consideration for the QB2 role next to Mason Rudolph and Drew Allar. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Post-Gazette's Gerry Dulac and Christopher Carter report from Steelers OTAs at the team's South Side facility. The explain how younger players including Drew Allar, Will Howard and others are getting more work this week with older veterans now off until training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Were Allar and Howard able to make the most of their reps with Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph absent? Does Howard need to unseat Rudolph as Rodgers' primary backup to make the roster? Will GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy get enough value out of Darnell Washington following his extension last week to play alongside Pat Freiermuth for the long term? Is new DC Patrick Graham signaling intent to play more nickel defense with names like Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Jamel Dean, Jaquan Brisker and DeShon Elliott in the secondary? And what's the timeline for an extension for Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Colin Beazley and Matt Press react to the team's ill-fated road trip against the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves and look forward to a crucial series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This show is presented by FanDuel. How can manager Don Kelly right the proverbial ship with the back-to-back World Series champs coming to PNC Park? Are there any moves left to make with Gregory Soto, Dennis Santana, Carmen Mlodzinski and others within the struggling bullpen? Can Paul Skenes shake his latest mini slump against one of the toughest lineups in baseball? And what else are the guys watching as Bryan Reynolds, Oneil Cruz, Brandon Lowe, Ryan O'Hearn and the offense look to lift the team out of its latest skid? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter reset the major Steelers offseason storylines following OTAs and minicamp. They start with the quarterbacks and the competition to back up Aaron Rodgers. Is Will Howard the player under the most pressure to impress and hold on to his roster spot for 2026? How far is Drew Allar from competing meaningfully for the No. 2 role? And does Mason Rudolph have any potential to enjoy a renaissance in his 30s as QBs like Baker Mayfield, Gene Smith and Sam Darnold have elsewhere in the NFL? Especially with a known QB developer like Mike McCarthy as his head coach? Later, the guys look at the offensive lines, receivers and defense. How soon will NFL draft picks Max Iheanachor and Gennings Dunker have a chance to start next to established names like Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu? Are Spencer Anderson and Dylan Cook in position to win the other starting spots for now? Where does Broderick Jones fit within that calculus? What have we seen from Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard in the early going as they join DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson? And where has new DC Patrick Graham's influence become most clear within that unit? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: Should fans be worried about ace Paul Skenes' recent results? Particularly with fast ball velocity dipping? What can GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly to do to get the bullpen under control after another meltdown this week against the Astros? What are the best- and worst-case scenarios for Jared Jones in his return from injury? And could a prospect like Antwone Kelly begin to make an impact at the MLB level soon? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles digest a busy week of moves from the Steelers and their AFC North rivals. Did GM Omar Khan invest too much in depth players like Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington with extensions this week? Considering their lower depth chart status behind names like Alex Highsmith, Pat Freiermuth and T.J. Watt? Or do these moves set Khan up to potentially make some trades as he looks to bolster the roster around Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Jaylen Warren, Cam Heyward and others? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the implications of the Myles Garrett trade. Should Khan be more aggressive like the Rams if the goal is to compete meaningfully for a Super Bowl in 2026? Where does this deal leave the Cleveland Browns? And how will the absence of Garrett within the division impact the Steelers' playoff chances? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter react to news that the Steelers are re-signing Darnell Washington to a long-term contract extension. Was this deal a good one for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy? Or will that depend upon how they use Washington alongside other receiving options like DK Metcalf, Germie Bernard, Michael Pittman Jr., Pat Freiermuth and Jaylen Warren? Is it a surprise that this deal got done before Joey Porter Jr.'s or Keeanu Benton's? And how does this deal impact those negotiations? Our duo tackles those questions. Then takes stock of the team's EDGE rusher situation following Nick Herbig's extension earlier in the week. Could the move necessitate a trade of Alex Highsmith or T.J. Watt before the season? And is the term still investing too heavily in a defense that isn't producing dominant results? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from Day 2 of the team's mandatory minicamp at its South Side facility. They react to the news that Nick Herbig has signed a lucrative contract extension. What does this mean for coach Mike McCarthy and DC Patrick Graham's defense moving forward? Could a move be made with T.J. Watt or Alex Highsmith, who both have significant contracts of their own at the same position? Or could GM Omar Khan really be looking to pay big money to all three moving forward? And what implications could Herbig's deal have on negotiations with other 2023 NFL draft class members including Joey Porter Jr., Darnell Washington and Keeanu Benton? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the first day of the team's mandatory minicamp at its South Side facility. Why was rookie CB Daylen Everette a frequent target for QB Aaron Rodgers and WR DK Metcalf in drills? And how did he perform? Was it a surprise that no players held out or held in amid contract negotiations with names like Joey Porter Jr., Darnell Washington and Nick Herbig? And what did we learn about new DC Patrick Graham's plans for the season with names like Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and others on the field for practice for the first time this offseason? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley gives his report card for GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly's squad for May. This show is presented by FanDuel. Did Paul Skenes, Braxton Ashcraft, Mitch Keller and Bubba Chandler and the starters do a good enough job mitigating the struggles of the bullpen? How low of a mark did Yohan Ramirez, Dennis Santana, Justin Lawrence and the bullpen get? How did outfielders Bryan Reynolds, Oneil Cruz and other fare in the absence of Ryan O'Hearn? And what did Colin see from infielders including Konnor Griffin, Nick Gonzalez, Brandon Lowe and Spencer Horwitz? He tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to preview some of the top storylines for the team's minicamp this week. Does Roman Wilson hold the key to the success of the wide receivers group this year? Can he help the group be dominant alongside DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard? Or will he hold the offense back by struggling to find a consistent connection with QB Aaron Rodgers within coach Mike McCarthy's offense like he did last season? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders which players may hold in and not practice with the team this week. Will names like Nick Herbig, Joey Porter Jr., Jaylen Warren and Jalen Ramsey finally make appearances? Or could they be looking for something contractually ahead of training camp next month? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley welcomes sports columnist Noah Hiles to talk about a busy week of news for the club. Did manager Don Kelly make the right call in moving Carmen Mlodzinski to the struggling bullpen? Despite his solid numbers as a starter this season? And what kind of impact can Jaren Jones make on the rotation next to names like Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Braxton Ashcraft and Bubba Chandler? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to a busy week at the team's OTAs. Is new coach Mike McCarthy's plan to get playmakers including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Germie Bernard, Roman Wilson and Pat Freiermuth realistic? Or too ambitious as the team welcomes back Aaron Rodgers at QB? And what should we make of Patrick Queen's comments about NFL trade rumors that swirled around him this offseason and GM Omar Khan's glut of extension candidates to deal with this summer, including Joey Porter Jr., Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington? Our duo tackles those questions and more? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from OTAs practice at the team's South Side facility. They explain how QB Aaron Rodgers remains engaged in installing coach Mike McCarthy's offense despite veteran status that might otherwise allow him to sit out. And how the lure of one more run in the NFL seems to be inspiring him as he leads a unit dotted with stars like DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth and others. Then later, the guys discuss CB Daylen Everette and why he's be one of the stand out rookies from an NFL draft class that includes names like Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard and fellow third-round picks Drew Allar and Gennings Dunker. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter ponder the future for players who've either been marginalized in the past or overlooked by many since the start of the NFL offseason workout program. Can Kaleb Johnson overcome his special teams gaffe that landed him in former coach Mike Tomlin's proverbial dog house and prove that he belongs in the backfield alongside Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle? How will Roman Wilson respond to offseason moves for Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard that figure to push him down the depth chart? And how will new coach Mike McCarthy use tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? Our duo ponders those questions. Then analyzes Payton Wilson's ability to help teammate Patrick Queen shore up communication from the middle linebacker spot and chart a future for that position group with Queen's contract status uncertain past 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly mailbag video, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: What can GM Ben Cherington realistically do to fix the bullpen internally as the trade deadline is still months away? How long can the Pirates live without production from Marcell Ozuna, and does Ryan O'Hearn's injury change that calculus? Is Oneil Cruz striking out too much? How will they split playing time between recent call-ups Jhostynxon Garcia and Esmerlyn Valdez? And when will we see Jared Jones again? Colin tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter welcomes sports columnist Noah Hiles to break down some hot topics from the week's OTAs. Can new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham fix the communication issues that have plagued the unit and annoyed fans? Or is that more of a problem with the players? How can Graham get the most out of veteran stars like T.J. Watt, Patrick Queen, Jalen Ramsey and Cam Heyward? What about his experience makes him the man for the job? What's the latest on the quarterback situation? How does Aaron Rodgers' official return affect Mason Rudolph, Will Howard and Drew Allar? Could they keep all four? Or is this a precursor to a Howard trade? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's OTAs at its South Side facilities. They recap QB Aaron Rodgers' news conference in which he explained his decision to return, crediting conversations with GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy as well as significant additions to the roster. Rico Dowdle, Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard are among the names joining established Steelers Pat Freiermuth, DK Metcalf and Jaylen Warren. Our duo also notes the performance of Will Howard in practice, praising his latest step as he looks to win the backup job from Drew Allar and Mason Rudolph. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to comments by new OC Brian Angelichio and DC Patrick Graham during the team's OTAs. Is Angelichio correct to focus on versatility for his receivers including Germie Bernard, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson? And offensive linemen including Max Iheanachor, Mason McCormick, Gennings Dunker, Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones? And what can that versatility possibly add for new coach Mike McCarthy's offense? And on defense, can Patrick Graham clean up the communication issues that have plagued the unit at times under coach Mike Tomlin? And if so, how effective can Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey, Jamel Dean and the rest of the group be? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the first day of the team's OTA's at its South Side facility. How did Aaron Rodgers look working with the starters following his one-year deal to return to the team over the weekend? Can he mentor young QBs Will Howard and Drew Allar? What are the early differences we're seeing as Mike McCarthy's coaching staff takes the place of Mike Tomlin's? What's in store for the offense with new faces Rico Dowdle, Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard joining established rostered players including DK Metcalf and Jaylen Warren? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder Aaron Rodgers' official return to the team this weekend. What does it mean that he'll be back in time for OTAs this week, the first under new coach Mike McCarthy? And how will that benefit the team's young QBs WIll Howard and Drew Allar as they look to grow behind Rodgers on the depth chart? Our duo tackles those questions, then considers offensive line alignment for names like Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor, Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier as they look to build cohesion to block for Rodgers and the backfield of Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren. Then the guys wrap the show by analyzing what could be in store for T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and the defense this week as new DC Patrick Graham begins to implement his system. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter preview OTAs for the team, which begin next week at its South Side facility for the first time under new coach Mike McCarthy. What will the QB dynamic be with Will Howard and Mason Rudolph joining Drew Allar after his time in the spotlight for rookie minicamp? Especially with the Aaron Rodgers situation looming in the background? What will we see from new receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard as they start to work with DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson? How will the offensive line sort itself out with Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, Dylan Cook and Spencer Anderson all looking to solidify roles next to Zach Frazier? And what does new DC Patrick Graham have in store for the secondary? Specifically safeties Jalen Ramsey and Jaquan Brisker? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to the Steelers' 2026 schedule that was released Friday and the inclusion of four night games and a Black Friday matchup to go with the previously announced trip to Paris to face the New Orleans Saints. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly Pirates mailbag video, Post-Gazette insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: Will GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly consider playing the recently promoted Endy Rodriguez often if he continues to hit? Especially with Henry Davis and Joey Bart struggling at the plate? Would Jhostynxon García be the first to get a call if an injury takes Ryan O'Hean, Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds and/or Jake Mangum out of the outfield mix? Could Konnor Griffin regularly hit second against lefties as he did this week? And what are the chances former top pick Seth Hernandez makes it to Class AA Altoona this year after his recent promotion to Greensboro? Colin tackles those questions and more. This show is presented by FanDuel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edger Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the news of the Steelers being scheduled for a game against the New Orleans Saints in Paris next season and the release of cornerback Cory Trice Jr. Why were the Steelers picked to play overseas for a second straight season? What does it say about the brand recognition the team has? Is this another opportunity for the team to plant its flag in an international market? How were last season's festivities at Croke Park in Dublin? Our duo tackles those topics and more, including what the release of Cory Trice Jr. says about the Steelers' confidence in defensive backs like Jamel Dean, Joey Porter Jr. and Daylen Everette. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley and columnist Noah Hiles break down the team's bullpen struggles and which pitchers' stock is rising and whose is falling. This show is presented by FanDuel. Which pitchers have been solid out of the 'pen? How can manager Don Kelly continue to maximize his three lefties — Gregory Soto, Mason Montgomery and Evan Sisk? How can they help get Dennis Santana back to where he needs to be? And what options do they have in middle relief after some of the struggles of Justin Lawrence and others? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edger Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo break down the weekend's rookie minicamp. Where do NFL Draft picks Max Iheanachor and Gennings Dunker fit along the Steelers' offensive line? Will new offensive line coach James Campen need to do some reshuffling with names like Troy Fautanu? And where does this leave Broderick Jones? What did our guys see from other draft picks like Germie Bernard, Daylen Everette and Eli Heidenreich? Our duo tackles those topics and more, then takes a look at QB Drew Allar. What kind of attention did he receive from new coach Mike McCarthy? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's rookie minicamp, where NFL draft selections including Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard, Drew Allar, Gennings Dunker and Daylen Everette made their first appearances in uniform. How did Allar look as he looks to compete with last year's rookie QB, Will Howard? How will Bernard fill out the receiving corps next to DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson? And what impressions did Iheanachor and Dunker make as they look to find playing time next to established veterans Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier on the offensive line? Our duo tackles those questions, plus the latest on QB Aaron Rodgers, who still has not signed with the team despite reportedly meeting with team brass including GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the news that Aaron Rodgers is expected to be in Pittsburgh this weekend to possibly sign with the team for the 2026 season. Was Rodgers' return as inevitable as it has seemed at times? Or have GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy had doubts that Rodgers may retire or sign with another team? How excited will Rodgers be to work with new receiving options like Germie Bernard and Michael Pittman Jr. alongside returning names like Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson and Pat Freiermuth? And how will Rodgers help rookies like Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor, Drew Allar and others along in their development? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly mailbag show, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley answers reader questions. Among them: How aggressively should we expect GM Ben Cherington to promote top draft choice Seth Hernandez through the minor leagues? How should manager Don Kelly juggle outfield and DH duties for Bryan Reynolds, Marcell Ozuna, Oneil Cruz and Ryan O'Hearn to limit defensive gaffes as much as possible? Why has Joey Bart caught for Bubba Chandler lately? And could Jared Jones be the sixth man in the rotation when he returns from injury? Colin tackles those questions and more. This show is presented by FanDuel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edger Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner and guest Christopher Carter ponder lessons the Steelers can learn from past competitions between young QBs. They reference colleague Ray Fittipaldo's story in which he looked back on battles between Brian Brohm and Matt Flynn with the packers; Kirk Cousins and Robert Griffin III with the Commanders; and Brock Purdy and Trey Lance with the 49ers. Can Drew Allar and/or Will Howard replicate the success Flynn, Cousins and Purdy had as later round QBs? Does Howard have the historical edge as the player drafted lower? And what does Allar need to show at rookie minicamp alongside names like Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard and Gennings Dunker? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks Aaron Rodgers future after colleague Gerry Dulac reported this week that the patience of Steelers brass including GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy is wearing thin with the former MVP. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko break down the team's offensive line after the news that Broderick Jones didn't have his fifth-year option picked up. What does this decision mean for Jones' future with the team? What does it signal about Jones' neck injury? Does the Max Iheanachor pick in the first round of the NFL Draft make more sense now? And how should coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan build their offensive line now? Our duo tackles those topics and more, including whether the Steelers' 1-2 NFL Draft punch of Iheanachor and Germie Bernard ended up better than the Philadelphia Eagles' duo of Makai Lemon and Miami tackle Markel Bell after a draft-night heist. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes former league executive Andrew Brandt to react to a busy week of NFL draft news from a local perspective. What should fans make of GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy missing out on primary target Makai Lemon before settling for Max Iheanachor in the first round? How does he see the future of the QB position with Aaron Rodgers' 2026 status still uncertain and Drew Allar, Will Howard and Mason Rudolph waiting in the wings? And what are Andrew's thoughts on his former colleague with the Green Bay Packers McCarthy returning home while former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin moves into a television career at NBC? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Penguins insider King Jemison and sports columnist Noah Hiles break down the team's season-ending Game 6 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers from Xfinity Mobile Arena and look at where the team goes from here. This show is presented by FanDuel. Why didn't the Penguins emerge victorious in a game when they played well? Did Arturs Silovs cement himself as the Penguins' goalie of the future? Were they undone by resting key players down the stretch? Would the series have turned out differently if they played like that the whole time? And what is next for the team's Big Three of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to analyze the team's receiving options following the NFL draft. Does the selection of Germie Bernard, following the trade for Michael Pittman Jr., make GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy's team good at the position relative to the rest of the NFL? Or does the unit led by DK Metcalf still lag behind? How well will this group be able to work with young QBs Drew Allar and Will Howard? And is depth a concern behind the top three amid uncertainty about Roman Wilson's future? Our duo tackles those topics, then ponders the specialist role the team leaned into with its Day 3 picks. Is there room for Kaden Wetjen, Robert Spears-Jennings, Eli Heidenreich and Riley Nowakowski to all make the team? Or could it be a struggle with special teams aces Ben Skowronek and Carson Bruener already on the roster? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.