The North Shore Drive

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to QB Shedeur Sanders' scheduled visit to the team's facility ahead of the NFL draft. Do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have genuine interest in Deion Sanders' son should he fall from the top five in the draft? Or is it a smokescreen designed to obscure Khan's true interests? And how would Sanders fit in QB room with the likes of Mason Rudolph and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions, then reviews other top 30 visits to this point. Is Jaxson Dart on the Steelers' radar after his own visit? Is WR Matthew Golden still on the first-round radar, despite the DK Metcalf trade? Why haven't more offensive visitors been in the projected first-round range? And what should we make of the fact that none of the projected first-round DL options have visited? A list that includes names like Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, Darius Alexander and Tyleik Williams?

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes newly signed defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale to the show. How does the the veteran fit into coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin's defense alongside names like Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? How does he believe his career-best season a year ago with the New England Patriots can translate to his new team? And what are his personal relationships to Steelers past and present including Isaac Seumalo and Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers be paying attention to the first-round buzz starting to swirl around Alabama QB Jalen Milroe after he was invited to attend the NFL draft in-person later this month? Or should he still be a guy GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider only in the later rounds? And how does his game stack up against other possible QB targets including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough and Will Howard? Paul tackles those questions, offers thoughts on the signing of OT Calvin Anderson as depth behind Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu and reacts the Pirates' weekend series loss to the Yankees in which SPs Mitch Keller and Bailey Falter struggled against a tough lineup led by Aaron Judge.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to talk in depth about the team's needs at receiver heading into the NFL draft in a couple of weeks. How much do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin's plans at the position hinge on George Pickens' future? Could they still target a Day 1 option like Emeka Egbuka, Luther Burden III or Matthew Golden to pair with DK Metcalf for the long term? Or is the need at positions like QB, RB and DT too great to ignore? How do other internal options like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III fit into the conversation? If the Steelers go with a Day 2 option like Tre Harris, Elic Ayomanor, Jayden Higgins, Jack Bech, Jaylin Noel or Jaylen Royals, which traits will be most important them? And what role should special teams play in this conversation, especially as it pertains to possible Day 3 options like Pat Bryant or Chimere Dike? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks QBs. Could we finally get a decision from Aaron Rodgers this week? If he doesn't sign, would that elevate the chances the team targets names like Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough or Jalen Milroe in the draft? Or would they look more toward veterans like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and/or Carson Wentz? And could Milroe's stock be surging amid his invite to attend the draft in-person in Green Bay, Wisc.?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the club's series against the St. Louis Cardinals LIVE. What grade should we give manager Derek Shelton's club after its first 10 games of 2025? What should we make of the rotation after a rough week for names including Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter, Carmen Mlodzinski and Thomas Harrington behind Paul Skenes? And how encouraged should we be by Ke'Bryan Hayes' start at the plate?

On the weekly NFL mock draft tracker show, host Derrick Stilley welcomes Steelers insider Christopher Carter to look at the latest popular picks. Defensive tackle has been a popular position in Round 1, but could the Steelers double-dip in Round 2? Would QB Jaxson Dart be a reach in the first round like Kenny Pickett was in 2022? And is there a world in which the Steelers draft a wide receiver early after trading for DK Metcalf?

Pirates TV reporter Robbie Incmikoski joins Post-Gazette columnist Jason Mackey to talk about the 2025 Pirates, his book "Sacred Grounds: What Our Ballparks Mean to Us" and more. How does Paul Skenes stack up against some other players he's covered? And what led Incmikoski to pursue a career in TV, and what does he want his next professional chapter to be?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers reporters Christopher Carter and Brian Batko take a look at the quarterbacks in the NFL draft class and ask: Would taking one in Round 1 be Kenny Pickett all over again? Plus, who are some outside-the-box picks we have our eyes on, and who could be a trade-up candidate?

Pirates insider Noah Hiles and columnist Jason Mackey preview Friday's home opener and address the elephant in the room: Will fans boo manager Derek Shelton and the team? And if so, is that fair? Plus they offer thoughts on how the Pirates can jump-start their offense, the evolution of Mitch Keller as a pitcher and the questions about who can stop the bleeding in the bullpen?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers have pushed harder to trade for QB Joe Milton III, who went from the Patriots to the Cowboys on Thursday in exchange for a pair of later-round draft picks? Could he have more upside than Mason Rudolph as a backup? Or would his age and room for development even made him a preferable option to Aaron Rodgers that GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin should have pursued? Paul tackles those topics; reacts to visits by NFL draft prospects including WR Matthew Golden, RB Kaleb Johnson, CB Azareye'h Thomas and TE Gavin Bartholomew; and gives his thoughts on the sorry state of the Pirates ahead of the home opener Friday against the New York Yankees.

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Jason Mackey react to the week in Pittsburgh sports news. What should we make of comments from Steelers owner Art Rooney II, coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan about their pursuit of Aaron Rodgers? Is it wise for the Steelers to look toward the 2026 NFL draft for their QB of the future, given the many compensatory picks they'll have at their disposal to try to trade up? Are options beyond Arch Manning compelling? Or are Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, LaNorris Sellers and Garrett Nussmeier similar to this year's crop, which includes names like Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart and Will Howard? Are Jeff Capel and Pitt basketball in trouble after Jaland Lowe and Jorge and Guillermo Diaz-Graham entered the transfer portal? Or can they draw hope from quick and major turnarounds from Final Four programs like Auburn and Houston? How closely should we be watching new Penguins faces including Ville Koivunen and Rutger McGroarty? And in the third segment, airing on the Post-Gazette's Pirates YouTube channel, our duo offers thoughts on the club's ugly start to the season. Are GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton caught between what's best for the club's long-term future and what's best for retaining their jobs short-term in some of their roster decisions involving names like Carmen Mlodzinski and Thomas Harrington? What is the deal with the six-man rotation? Shouldn't we want to see more — rather than less — of Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller? Whose slow offensive start should we be most worried about? Tommy Pham, Jack Suwinski, Ke'Bryan Hayes, or someone else? And how frosty will the home opening reception be against the New York Yankees on Friday at PNC Park?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles and sports columnist Jason Mackey break down the team's series loss to the Tampa Bay Rays this week. Did Wednesday's win, led by Paul Skenes, show this team can get on the right track? Or should Derek Shelton's club expect a chilly reaction from its fans when it returns to Pittsburgh for Friday's home opener on Friday? What is the state of the bullpen without David Bednar, who was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis on Tuesday? What should the Pirates do with Colin Holderman, who struggled again Wednesday? Is Dennis Santana the club's de facto closer? And how concerned should we be with the team's underwhelming hitting through seven games from players like Tommy Pham and Jack Suwinski? Our duo answers those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. How closely should GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers consider drafting a RB in the first round to replace Najee Harris alongside Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Are names like Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton and Kaleb Johnson worth forgoing other positions of need to select? Do they need a defensive lineman like Derrick Harmon, Walter Nolen or Kenneth Grant more? And what should we make of colleague Gerry Dulac's reporting that RB could be an option in "any" round? Paul tackles those questions as well as the Pirates' series finale with the Tampa Bay Rays. Was Paul Skenes able to steady the ship after a 1-5 start to the season? And how hostile will fans be toward owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington and manager Shelton with the home opener looming Friday?

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to owner Art Rooney II's comments about the team's pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers via NFL free agency. Is Rodgers now on the clock to make a decision before the NFL draft? How much will his decision factor into the calls coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan make about who to select in the draft? And what will the consequences be in terms of perception if Rodgers decides not to sign, leaving the Steelers with either Mason Rudolph or other free agents including Drew Lock, Joe Flacco and Carson Wentz as their QB options for 2025? Our duo tackles those topics, then gets into Ray's latest seven-round NFL mock draft. Why does he like Kenneth Grant from Michigan as the team's first-round pick? Could Louisville QB Tyler Shough make sense as a potential backup or even starter of the future? And why is Ray looking at names including Oklahoma State RB Ollie Gordon, Indiana DL CJ West, Florida WR Chimere Dike and Wisconsin OT Jack Nelson in later rounds? Then in the third segment, Chris and Ray weigh NFL rule changes that were and were not approved at the owners meetings this week.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles breaks down the team's decision Tuesday to option David Bednar to Triple-A Indianapolis. Where does the two-time All-Star closer go from here? What happened to Bednar in the first place, and how likely is it that he'll regain his form in the minor leagues? When could he potentially contribute again to the Pirates bullpen? And in his absence, who will step up to close out games for Derek Shelton's struggling team? Noah answers all those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Steelers owner Art Rooney II telling reporters Tuesday he feels "pretty good" about the team signing Aaron Rodgers to be its starting quarterback? How long should Rooney, general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin wait before moving on from Rodgers, either for internal candidate Mason Rudolph or external options like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and Carson Wentz? And what does Paul think of some of the rule changes Rooney is voting for at the NFL owners meeting? Paul tackles those topics; the demotion of the Pirates' David Bednar to the minor leagues; and news that star guard Jaland Lowe will be transferring from Pitt basketball after Jeff Capel once again failed to get the Panthers into March Madness.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes colleague Gerry Dulac with the latest from the NFL owners meetings in West Palm Beach, Fla. Why are the Steelers the talk of the town amid their protracted pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers via NFL free agency? What were Gerry's thoughts on comments made by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan about the situation over the weekend? Are they still trying to compete for playoff wins while stars including T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward on the roster? Or how much are they looking toward taking a QB in the 2026 NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions as well as possible rules changes that could be passed Tuesday and the potential for the Steelers' schedule to include meetings with lots of familiar faces. Could they see former players Kenny Pickett, Najee Harris and Justin Fields in a short span of time next season? And who might they face in their Dublin, Ireland game?

Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to the news that the team is calling up top prospect Thomas Harrington to start against the Rays. Is this going to be a long-term move, or just a spot start? And what should fans expect to see out of Harrington on Tuesday night in Tampa Bay?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of reports that Aaron Rodgers and Steelers WR DK Metcalf had a throwing session over the weekend? Does it signal that Rodgers may sign with the Steelers soon? What are Paul's thoughts on comments made by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan at the NFL owners meetings over the weekend? Is his faith in QB Mason Rudolph warranted? Will young offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu heed his message? And should we take positive comments about George Pickens at face value? Paul tackles those topics, then pivots to the Pirates, who lost three of four in their MLB season-opening series against the Miami Marlins. How much blame does manager Derek Shelton deserve for the sloppy play? Is it too soon to panic about relievers David Bednar and Colin Holderman? And which players need to be better starting Monday night against the Tampa Bay Rays?

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to comments from Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin at NFL owners meetings over the weekend. Why do they not seem to be in any kind of rush to seal the deal with QB Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency? Does Rodgers' reported workout with Steelers WR DK Metcalf signal that a deal may be imminent? Or at least inevitable? What does it all mean for QB Mason Rudolph now that he's back under contract in Pittsburgh? And do positive comments about George Pickens signal that they team really believes in him for 2025 and beyond? Our duo tackles those topics, as well as the future of the running back position as the NFL draft looms. Should Khan pursue a marquee name to team with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield? Think an Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton? Or are there depth options like Quinshon Judkins, Kaleb Johnson and others who could fit just as well?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to the day in team news live around noon Eastern. Can manager Derek Shelton fix his team's sloppy mistakes from the season-opening series loss to the Miami Marlins over the weekend? What should he do about David Bednar and Colin Holderman, who've struggled in the bullpen early after issues in 2024? What should we make of Endy Rodriguez's first week at first base? And can Oneil Cruz correct some defensive gaffes in the outfield? Noah tackles those questions and more ahead of a series with the Tampa Bay Rays that begins Monday evening.

On their weekly NFL mock draft tracker podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo recap the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. -Do coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan have more needs than they can fill with this class, after trading their second-round pick for DK Metcalf earlier this month? -Why is Tyler Shough emerging as a serious option for the Steelers to slot in behind Mason Rudolph and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? -How seriously should we take coach Mike Tomlin's pro day dinner with Ohio State standouts Will Howard, Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson? -Should we play any attention to the growing mock draft momentum toward the Steelers selecting possible Day 1 QB options Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders? -Why is Walter Nolen a divisive figure in the mock daft world and how does he fit with the Steelers' needs compared to defensive tackles like Derrick Harmon and Kenneth Grant? -What are Ray's thoughts about Omarion Hampton and Jahdae Barron, who still consistently show up in Steelers mocks?

On his Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes former Pirates All-Star utility man Josh Harrison to talk about the start of the 2025 season and his memories with the team. How much does Josh still watch the Pirates? What is his relationship like with Andrew McCutchen, who's still leading the team at 38? What similarities does he see between this team -- led by names like Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds -- and the 2011-15 group that got the Pirates back to the MLB postseason? With names like Neil Walker, A.J. Burnett and Francisco Liriano leading the charge? Our duo tackles those topics as well as Josh's move into retired life. Why is he content with now doing the family life? What are his favorite Opening Day memories from his career? And how did he see the art of being a utility player in manager Clint Hurdle's clubhouse?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko weigh the team's QB options as another week of the wait for Aaron Rodgers comes to an end. Are there still viable QB alternatives after Russell Wilson signed with the New York Giants this week? Could free agent names like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and Carson Wentz make sense above or below Mason Rudolph on the depth chart? And how closely should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be focused on NFL draft options including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart and Will Howard? Later, they discuss life for the Steelers if Rodgers ultimately signs. Could the QB clash with OC Arthur Smith like Wilson did? And in the final segment, our duo gives its thoughts on proposed NFL rule changes.

How did Paul Skenes look in his first season-opening start? How did the bullpen situation playout with names including David Bednar, Colin Holderman and Denis Santana? Were Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, Andrew McCutchen, Ke'Bryan Hayes and the lineup able to get off to a productive start? And what did the guys think of manager Derek Shelton's decisions? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles and sports columnist Jason Mackey stream LIVE from Miami ahead of the club's MLB Opening Day matchup with the Marlins at loanDepot Park. How will Paul Skenes look after a dominant spring training? What about the rest of the rotation -- which includes Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter, Carmen Mlodzinski and Andrew Heaney -- in the absence of the injury Jared Jones? Are Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen, Ke'Bryan Hayes, Bryan Reynolds and the offense prepared to take a step forward? And what will young players including Endy Rodriguez, Jack Suwinski and others prove in 2025? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

On their weekly podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey react to the Steelers' offseason moves so far. How do moves for names like DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell, Darius Slay and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers compare to GM Omar Khan's action in his first two seasons? Does this group compare well with the 2023 NFL free agency class that included Elandon Roberts, Larry Ogunjobi and Isaac Seumalo? Or the 2024 group that included Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Patrick Queen and DeShon Elliott? Will a lack of NFL draft picks naturally lead to a less bountiful offseason? And how should the stockpiling of compensatory picks for 2026 factor into this conversations? Later, the guys get into some college talk with Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia all stating spring practice. Are eyes on Drew Allar in Happy Valley as he looks to shake off a College Football Playoff loss to Notre Dame? Can he get the most out of a loaded roster that includes returnees such as Nick Singleton, Kaytron Allen and more? And are receiver transfers Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson enough to help the passing game as it loses Tyler Warren to the NFL? In Morgantown, what kind of difference can the return of coach Rich Rodriguez make? And can Eli Holstein, Desmond Reid and the Panthers emerge from mediocrity? Our duo tackles those questions. Then in the third segment, airing on the PG Pirates YouTube channel, Adam and Jason get into predictions for the Pirates and the MLB season. How many wins will manager Derek Shelton's club rack up? Can Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller and the pitching staff push them over the .500 mark? Or will the lineup led by Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds and Ke'Bryan Hayes continue to struggle like it has in years past? What should we make of Carmen Mlodzinski earning a rotation spot? How will the catching situation play out with Endy Rodriguez making the Opening Day roster and Henry Davis starting in Class AAA? And why haven't we hear from owner Bob Nutting this spring?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5:30 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Steelers coach Mike Tomlin dining with Ohio State Buckeyes stars Will Howard, Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson at the national champions' pro day? Are Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan paying extra attention to those guys as potential NFL draft picks? Where would Howard fit in a quarterback room with Mason Rudolph and — potentially — Aaron Rodgers? And could Henderson and/or Judkins could be a good replacement for Najee Harris alongside Jaylen Warren? Paul also talks quarterbacks after Russell Wilson signed with the New York Giants on Tuesday. What went wrong in the Steelers' relationship with him as their starter ahead of Justin Fields last season? Will he find more success in New York? And does this put more pressure on Khan and Tomlin to finish the deal with Rodgers? Then, later, Paul looks toward opening day on Thursday for the Pirates, as Paul Skenes, Andrew McCutchen, Oneil Cruz and Co. look to have their first winning season since 2018.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to Russell Wilson signing with the New York Giants in NFL free agency. Does the move make an eventual marriage between the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers inevitable, with one less possible destination available to him? How will Wilson perform in New York after mixed results this past season with the Steelers? How seriously might GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be about Mason Rudolph as a potential starting option if a deal with Rodgers doesn't work out? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: How does Wilson's move further solidify Khan's plans regarding compensatory NFL draft picks for 2026? Could the Steelers use that capital to reload their roster? Or potentially chase a top-level quarterback like Arch Manning via a trade? And how closely are Khan and Co. watching Ohio State prospects including Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins and Will Howard after attending the Buckeyes' pro day this week?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Are GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers having a better or worse NFL offseason than their AFC North rivals? How do the Steelers acquisitions of names including DK Metcalf, Darius Slay, Kenneth Gainwell and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers stack up with what the Browns have done in extending star pass rusher Myles Garrett? What about the Bengals and their key extensions for receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase? Or the Baltimore Ravens with WR DeAndre Hopkins? Paul tackles those topics, the reacts to the latest from Pirates spring training as they prepare to open their season Thursday.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes New York Post Jets beat writer Brian Costello to figure out what's true and what's not about Aaron Rodgers' tenure with that team, as Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin pursue the QB in NFL free agency. Was Rodgers really a distraction for the Jets, as many believe because of his outspoken views beyond football? Or was he a better teammate than he's given credit for in a locker room with names like Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall and others? And how might he fit in a Steelers locker room that includes stars such as George Pickens, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and others? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the future of former Steelers QB Justin Fields in New York.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Is Aaron Rodgers a good potential fit with Steelers OC Arthur Smith's offense? How would it change compared to what we saw last season with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields behind center? And what impact will the acquisition of DK Metcalf to play across from George Pickens at receiver have on what Smith would like to do? Paul tackles those questions and more from around the sports world. What are his thoughts on the first weekend of March Madness, with mostly major-conference teams advancing? And what should we make of the Pirates' roster decisions announced so far -- including Endy Rodriguez making the team --ahead of Opening Day on Thursday?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles briefly discusses the team's 5-1 loss to the Twins in their final spring training contest Monday then gives his key takeaways as the team's opening day roster starts to take shape. Manager Derek Shelton informed reporters Monday morning that Carmen Mlodzinski will start the season as part of the Pirates' starting rotation. Is this just a quick fix in Jared Jones' absence or will Mlodzinski make the jump to being a starter full time? Speaking of Jones, how will his absence affect the team in the short term and — if necessary — the long term? Finally, who has the easiest path to the final roster spots, as six players — Peter Strzelecki, Hunter Stratton, Justin Lawrence, Joey Wentz, Ryan Borucki and Tanner Rainey — vie for three bullpen spots and three players — Jack Suwinski, Ji Hwan Bae and DJ Stewart — compete for the last two position-player spots? Noah answers those questions and more.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo weigh in on the team's continuing pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency. Have GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and top brass for team reached desperation for Rodgers to sign? Or is that need overstated? With Mason Rudolph already under contract and other free agent and trade options remaining, including Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco, Kirk Cousins and Joe Milton III? And with the likelihood of adding Rodgers eventually already fairly high, given his lack of other options? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the upside of NFL draft QBs. Will names including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Will Howard and Jalen Milroe ever be stars in the NFL? Or are they poised to be career backups? And how should that distinction figure into the Steelers' decision making? Then Chris and Ray end the show by talking safeties. How good will the Steelers' group -- led by Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott -- be after the signing of free agent Juan Thornhill?

Pirates insider Noah Hiles analyzes a couple opening day roster decisions, leading with Endy Rodriguez making the team as both a catcher and first baseman. Where will the once-top prospect ultimately fit in? Why did hard-throwing Kyle Nicolas NOT make the opening day roster? And does Jared Triolo have a new position to work with in center field? To read more about the roster moves, check out Noah's story here: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2025/03/23/pittsburgh-vs-blue-jays-rodriguez-nicolas/stories/202503230103 For more Pirates coverage, visit: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates Visit our sponsor, Greenawalt Roofing at https://greenawaltroofing.com/service-areas/pittsburgh-pennsylvania/

On their weekly Steelers NFL mock draft tracker podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko recap the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. -Is Derrick Harmon of Oregon emerging as the new consensus first-round choice, as receivers like Emeka Egbuka, Matthew Golden and Luther Burden III fade following the DK Metcalf trade? And how does Harmon compare to other possible Day 1 options like Michigan's Kenneth Grant? -Why do RB Omarion Hampton and CB Jahdae Brown remain popular choices despite the Steelers signing Kenneth Gainwell and Darius Slay at their respective positions via NFL free agency? -What should we make of the volatile draft stock of QBs like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart? How realistic are they as Day 1 options for the Steelers as the drama swirling around Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson persists? -Will Alfred Collins be available as a potential late Day 2 option on the defensive line?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to Paul Skenes' final MLB spring training start, in which he looked sharp in a loss to the Orioles. Is he ready to dominate with Opening Day looming this week and an injury to Jared Jones leaving question marks hanging over the rotation? Why is D.J. Stewart looking more comfortable at first base? And what can we expect from Hunter Stratton amid his return?

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes fellow Post-Gazette columnist Gene Collier to talk through his career and all things Pittsburgh sports. What does Gene think of the Steelers' current waiting game with the enigmatic Aaron Rodgers? Would Russell Wilson or even Mason Rudolph be a better choice? And what about Justin Fields? Jason and Gene also talk about the great T.J. Watt and whether the Steelers should trade the superstar — or if they would ever even consider it. Gene and Jason also talk about their expectations for the Pirates as opening day quickly approaches and their differing opinions on how the season could go. The duo also talks about Gene's career; the difference in writing sports columns vs. political columns; his annual "Trite Trophy" column; how Gene developed his unique writing style; and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What is a realistic ceiling for the Steelers with QB Aaron Rodgers, should they sign him via NFL free agency after his visit to the team facility Friday? Could his take weapons including DK Metcalf and George Pickens to a playoff win? Or more? What is the worst-case scenario with Rodgers for coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and the team's top brass? Could Tomlin suffer his first losing season if Rodgers shows his age? Paul tackles those topics, then reacts to Robert Morris putting a scare into Alabama in the NCAA Tournament. How proud should the Colonials be of their season after winning the Horizon League for the first time and returning to March Madness for the first time since 2015?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to a report from colleague Gerry Dulac that Aaron Rodgers is meeting with top brass including coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and owner Art Rooney II at the team's facility. Is a deal with the free agent QB imminent? Could he still take his time and ponder his options some more? And what could his potential move to Pittsburgh mean for the rest of the QB market, including names Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, Joe Flacco and others? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: How could this year's NFL draft QB class of names like Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Will Howard, Jalen Milroe and the others fit into the team's future? And what should we make of Najee Harris' criticism of the Steelers since signing with the Los Angeles Chargers last week?

On their weekly Pirates mailbag video, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin answer reader questions from spring training in Bradenton, Fla. If David Bednar continues to struggle, who could be the closer for manager Derek Shelton and the Pirates? Dennis Santana? Colin Holderman? Some combination of multiple bullpen arms? Do Noah and Andrew see the Pirates making any last-minute additions like they did with Michael A. Taylor last season? Who are some candidates to be cut or released before opening day? Are the Pirates in the market for another starting pitcher after the impending injury to Jared Jones? Noah and Andrew end by giving out some spring training awards.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Justin Fields' first public comments since choosing the New York Jets over the Steelers in NFL free agency? Is it a problem that he preferred the Jets' Aaron Glenn to the Steelers' Mike Tomlin as his coach? Did the Steelers miss an opportunity to build around Fields by turning to Russell Wilson at midseason last year? And who will have the better 2025? Fields? Wilson? Or Aaron Rodgers? Paul tackles those questions; reacts to Najee Harris' criticism of the Steelers culture and facilities; then weighs in with his expectations for March Madness as the NCAA tournament begins in earnest.

On their weekly podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey react to repeated criticism of the Steelers by former RB Najee Harris. Should we be surprised at his bitterness toward Mike Tomlin, Arthur Smith and the team he leaves behind? Or is he right about the culture and facilities being an impediment toward team success? On the QB front, should GM Omar Khan really want Aaron Rodgers as his protracted decision making process shows a lack of enthusiasm for joining the team via NFL free agency? And how fractured must the relationship with Russell Wilson be that the team still won't turn to him? As March Madness begins without Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia, which program is in the best position to return next year? The worst? And what should the Penguins' goals be for the remainder of the season as their Stanley Cup playoff hopes look bleak? Our duo tackles those question, then talks Pirates. Did GM Ben Cherington bet too hard on the team's rotation amid the potentially serious injury to Jared Jones? Will the rotation led by Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller manage without him? Who are the best options to fill out the rest of the group? Veterans like Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney? Or youngsters like Thomas Harrington, Bubba Chandler and Carmen Mlodzinski? And why is Jason bullish on the Tommy Pham signing and how he could influence young players like Henry Davis, Jared Triolo and Jack Suwinski?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts LIVE to a busy day of Pittsburgh sports news around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and the Steelers' brain trust pivot in their quarterback plans, as Aaron Rodgers is reportedly not close to an NFL free agency decision despite the Minnesota Vikings deciding against pursuing him? If so, should they consider other free agent options like Joe Flacco, Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston? What about potential trade targets such as Atlanta's Kirk Cousins or New England's Joe Milton III? Paul tackles those questions, then reacts to news that Pirates starter Jared Jones is out for the rest of MLB spring training with elbow discomfort. Can the rotation led by Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller manage without him? And which backup options, including Thomas Harrington and Bubba Chandler, deserve the closest looks?

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to news that the team dined with Alabama QB Jalen Milroe at the Crimson Tide's pro day this week. Are GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin genuinely interested in adding Milroe to their QB room? Why might his skill set be on their radar? How does he compare to other possible NFL draft QB options including Jaxson Dart and Will Howard? In segment two, the guys give their thoughts on news that the Minnesota Vikings are out of the Aaron Rodgers sweepstakes. Does this mean he's more likely to join the Steelers over other possibilities including Russell Wilson? How much longer will this QB drama need to play out? Then in the third segment, Ray and Chris analyze the signing of safety Juan Thornhill. What does he bring to the table alongside names including Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott?

Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles reports on MLB breaking news that SP Jared Jones has been sidelined for the rest of Pirates spring training with elbow discomfort. Manager Derek Shelton made the announcement early Wednesday. What details do we know about the injury so far? What could it mean for the makeup of the rotating with Opening Day just eight days away? If Jones is forced to miss significant time, who could take his spot in the rotation alongside names like Paul Skenes, Andrew Heaney and Mitch Keller? Could it be prospect Thomas Harrington? Or converted reliever Carmen Mlodzinski? Noah tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward's fiery comments on his podcast, referring to the Aaron Rodgers NFL free agency drama? Is it true that "You either want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler or you don't"? Or is the situation more complicated than that? Should general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be tiring of the uncertainty? And what should we make of the latest murmurs about quarterback alternatives including Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, Mason Rudolph and others? Paul tackles those questions and more, then talks a little hockey. Does the Penguins' recent winning streak after the NHL trade deadline mean anything? Are they still a credible threat to make the Stanley Cup playoffs? How should Tristan Jarry fit into the future in net after playing well since his return from the minors? And what are Paul's thoughts on their announced trip to Sweden next season?

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to the team's 3-2 victory against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday in Grapefruit League MLB spring training action. What has prospect Thomas Harrington shown this spring that could translate to the regular season? Could we see him with the big club sooner than later, even if he doesn't make the Opening Day roster? Is reliever David Bednar starting to find his groove after some inconsistency to start the spring? And could catcher Joey Bart be one of the most important bats in the lineup this season, alongside names like Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz?

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes NFL Network's Judy Battista to react to the team's moves -- or lack thereof -- in NFL free agency. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin do enough to improve the roster beyond the big trade for WR DK Metcalf? Is it impossible to grade the team's moves until we know how the QB drama will resolve, with Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Mason Rudolph all still among options who may start? Do moves for names including Darius Slay, Kenneth Gainwell, Malik Harrison and others move the needle enough to make the free agency period a success? Or are they smaller moves without much impact? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to moves across the AFC North with the Browns acting aggressively to extend Myles Garrett and acquire Kenny Pickett in a trade; the Bengals locking up key weapons for QB Joe Burrow by extending Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase; and the Ravens bringing in names including DeAndre Hopkins to help Lamar Jackson. Brian and Judy end the show with conversation about how the game of QB musical chairs between the Steelers, Giants and Vikings may end.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Are general manager Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers getting used for leverage with other teams by players including Aaron Rodgers, Justin Fields, Kyle Juszczyk and even Brandon Aiyuk last offseason? Or are they just getting unlucky in NFL free agency? What should we make of the latest on the quarterback front with Rodgers and Russell Wilson still available but not committing anywhere? And does Mason Rudolph have what it takes to be the Steelers' starter for a year if necessary? Paul tackles those topics, reacts to the release of the NCAA tournament/March Madness bracket and gives his thoughts on Pitt and Penn State both declining postseason invites.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles discusses his key takeaways from the team's split-squad day Monday, which included a 4-2 win over the Twins at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Fla., and a 9-6 loss to the Tigers at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Fla. Noah was on site in Bradenton and starts off by discussing Paul Skenes' outing vs. Minnesota. Why did Skenes struggle with his command at times Monday, and is this is a cause for concern? Or just knocking the rust off in spring training? Ke'Bryan Hayes hit a home run for the first time in a game since Aug. 30. How is Hayes managing his injuries, and could we expect an uptick in his power numbers? Plus, Ryan Borucki registered another scoreless outing. What are his chances of making the opening day bullpen? Noah answers those questions and more.