The North Shore Drive

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.

Post-Gazette Penguins insider King Jemison and sports columnist Noah Hiles break down the team's Game 5 win over the Philadelphia Flyers and wonder if a reverse sweep might actually be a possibility. This show is presented by FanDuel. What has changed between the Penguins' first three losses and their two subsequent wins? Are they just now finding their feet after resting through the final few games of the regular season? Is Sidney Crosby taking over this series despite being banged up? And what are the keys to a Game 6 win back in Philly? 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 Pirates insider Colin Beazley recaps a busy week for the club on the road, plus a frustrating home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday. Is there any reason for manager Don Kelly to worry about Dennis Santana after his blown save? Or do the numbers suggest it might have just been a bad night? Should GM Ben Cherington consider sending young shortstop Konnor Griffin to the minors amid his early career struggles? How much credit does Kelly deserve for his recent gameplans? And what should the team do with catchers Joey Bart and Henry Davis as both struggle at the plate? 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 Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's selection of Penn State QB Drew Allar in the third round of the NFL draft. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy signal intent to use Allar as a starter by visiting with him both at the NFL combine and in Pittsburgh before selecting him at No. 76 overall with the first of three third-round picks? Or is he destined to be a career backup behind Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard or someone else? And was he really the third best QB in this draft behind Fernando Mendonza and Ty Simpson, but ahead of names like Cade Klubnik, Taylen Green and Garrett Nussmeier? How how is the perception of his selection being impacted by other perceived development projects like Max Iheanachor? Our duo tackles those questions; ponders the long-term viability of late-round draft picks like Gabe Rubio, Robert Spears-Jennings and Eli Heidenreich; and analyze the undrafted free agent class that so far includes names like Devan Boykin, Chamon Metayer, Kevin Jobity Jr. and Lake McRee. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the team's quarterback situation after GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy selected Penn State's Drew Allar at that position in the third round of the NFL draft. What's next for Will Howard and Mason Rudolph now that Allar has joined them in the QB room for now? Will Aaron Rodgers finally join the roster formally soon? Or will he wait to see how the situation evolves? And which QB may be the odd man out if the Steelers are only able to keep three QBs rostered? Paul tackles those questions and offers general insight on the draft class that also including Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard, Gennings Dunker, Kaden Wetjen and others. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' new assistant coaching staff and look at key returner Macari Moore. This show is presented by FanDuel. What do the additions of assistant coaches Ronald Ramon, Ricardo Greer and Billy Hubly mean for Jeff Capel's program? What will they bring on and off the court? And what about the departure of Gilbert Brown? What do they lose from him? Our duo tackles those topics and more, plus takes a look at returning guard Macari Moore. What will his role be next season, and how will it help his development? 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, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's NFL draft picks from over the weekend. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy value development over immediate impact in selecting Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard, Drew Allar, Daylen Everett, Gennings Dunker, Kaden Wetjen, Riley Nowakowski, Gabe Rubio, Robert Spears-Jennings and Eli Heidenreich? And how will they fit within the roster for 2026 around established veterans including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Jaylen Warren, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how Iheanachor and Dunker will factor into offensive line plans alongside Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick. 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 Game 4 win over the Philadelphia Flyers and look ahead at who most needs to step up to keep them alive in the Stanley Cup playoffs. This show is presented by FanDuel. What changed in Game 4 that allowed the Penguins to win their first game of the series? What role did Arturs Silovs play, and should he start Game 5 in place of Stuart Skinner again? Is a comeback possible with two of the three possible remaining games in Pittsburgh? Who has been the Penguins' best player and who needs to step up? 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 break down Day 2 of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. How surprising was GM Omar Khan's selection of Penn State QB Drew Allar in the third round? What does that pick say for the futures of Aaron Rodgers, Will Howard and Mason Rudolph? Did they reach too far to get Allar? How can new coach Mike McCarthy mold Allar into an NFL quarterback? Can second-round WR Germie Bernard out of Alabama help the Steelers offense in 2026? Where will he line up? And what do Georgia CB Daylen Everette and Iowa OL Gennings Dunker bring? Our duo discusses 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 react to the team's first night of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, as they selected Arizona State OT Max Iheanachor after the Philadelphia Eagles swooped in and stole Makai Lemon out from under them. Why was Iheanachor such an unpopular pick? Can the Steelers expect him to produce in his rookie season? Or is he a project? Does it matter that he didn't take a pre-draft visit? What does this say about Broderick Jones' future with the team as he deals with a neck injury from last season? How did GM Omar Khan miss out on USC WR Makai Lemon? Why are they still neglecting the wide receiver position? Did they get complacent or outsmarted? 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 Penguins insider King Jemison welcomes columnist Noah Hiles to analyze the team's 3-0 series hole against the Flyers. Did the officials handle the Game 3 melee properly? How did the Penguins respond? What role did Stuart Skinner play in the team's second-period collapse? And finally, do the Penguins have a chance to make a major comeback? And what does this series say about where the franchise is headed? Does it make it less likely that Evgeni Malkin returns? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his final thoughts on what the Steelers should do in the NFL draft. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy be seeking playmakers at the receiver position in the form of Makai Lemon and Omar Cooper Jr. to play next to DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.? Should their have their eye on offensive linemen, particularly Vega Ioane to replace Isaac Seumalo at guard? Where do quarterbacks including Ty Simpson, Drew Allar, Cole Payton, Taylen Green and Garrett Nussmeier fit into the equation for Paul with uncertainty still surrounding Aaron Rodgers? And what are the chances we could get a surprise pick? Paul 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 Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to sort through his final first-round NFL mock draft and its implications for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy's team. Will coveted prospects like Jordyn Tyson, Makai Lemon and Vega Ioane even be available for selection at No. 21 overall? Or will the Steelers need to trade up to get them? Is Omar Cooper Jr. the likely best bet at No. 21 overall? And why does Chris feel he may be a better fit than names like Kayden McDonald, KC Concepcion, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Spencer Fano, who all go later than No. 21 in this mock? And how does maneuvering for Day 2 factor into any decisions Khan and his front office may make? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders QBs. Is it significant that Will Howard is splitting first-team reps with Mason Rudolph in offseason workouts? Or is it simply natural considering Aaron Rodgers' absence? Will the Steelers draft a QB like Drew Allar, Taylen Green, Cole Payton or Carson Beck? Or will they stand pat with their room as is, minus Rodgers? And at what point should Khan consider drafting Ty Simpson is he falls out of the first round? 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 welcomes Noah Hiles to discuss the team's disastrous first two games of the Stanley Cup playoffs and wonder whether they have any shot at a comeback against the Philadelphia Flyers. This show is presented by FanDuel. What has gone wrong for the Penguins, and why didn't they fix it in between Games 1 and 2? Do the Penguins look old, buoyed by stars like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson? How are the Flyers so much more physical and faster to the puck? What does this series outlook say about the future of the team? Do they have any answer for Porter Martone? Do the Penguins stand any chance of making a comeback? King and Noah tackle those topics, plus take a look at the most disappointing Penguins of the first two games and the few players who have shown up. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze picks from his final seven-round mock before the 2026 NFL draft begins. Why did Ray go with receiver Denzel Boston as the first-round pick, despite size that overlaps with what DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. already offer GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy? Is Keylan Rutledge closing a clear second-round value at guard? Does Treydan Stukes offer the versatility the secondary needs alongside Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey and Jamel Dean? Why would Antonio Williams be worth double dipping at receiver for? Is 6-foot-9 Travis Burke ideal insurance on Broderick Jones later in the third round? And why is Carson Beck the QB Ray settled on compared to other projected mid round picks like Drew Allar, Cole Payton and Taylen Green? Our duo tackles those questions, then sorts through Ray's Day 3 picks, including TE Marlon Klein, DL Darrell Jackson Jr., LB Jack Kelly and LB Nadame Tucker. 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 react to the pre-draft news conference of GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy. Is Broderick Jones healthier than a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter indicated earlier Monday? Is there still a chance Aaron Rodgers will sign before the NFL draft later this week? Or will Mason Rudolph and Will Howard continue to be the internal signal callers for now? Will Khan make any trades as he holds 12 picks for this draft? If so, why is USC receiver Makai Lemon the name to watch most closely? And are Vega Ioane and Chris Johnson the other top 30 visitors worth watching most closely? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.