Podcast appearances and mentions of calvin austin iii

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes QB Will Howard to talk about his transition from winning a championship with the Ohio State Buckeyes in college to life as a sixth-round NFL draft pick. Howard explains how he's been getting involved in the community with other rookies this week; his rapport with new teammate Aaron Rodgers in the QB room; the importance of earning respect in the eyes of coach Mike Tomlin; and his growing relationship with receivers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Robert Woods, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. Then later, the guys take a look ahead to Howard's first Steelers training camp next month at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe.

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo ponder coach Mike Tomlin's future with Aaron Rodgers now in the fold at QB. Does he have the institutional support from owner Art Rooney II and GM Omar Khan to coach past this season, regardless of what happens with Rodgers? Or could follow names like Mike McCarthy of the Green Bay Packers and Robert Salah of the New York Jets in being fired for to reach expectations with the future Hall of Fame QB at the helm? Later, the guys analyze the team's situation at receiver following minicamp. Are Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III showing signs that they can be productive behind DK Metcalf on the depth chart? Or should the team still consider signing veterans like Keenan Allen, Gabe Davis and/or Amari Cooper? Then in the third segment, Chris and Ray explain how special teams coach Danny Smith is approaching the NFL's ever-changing kickoff rules.

June 13, 2025 - Season 15, Episode 147 of The Terrible Podcast is now in the can. In this Friday episode, Alex Kozora and I get right to talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers' recent mandatory minicamp that wrapped up on Thursday. We go over the few notable things that Steelers HC Mike Tomlin had to say on Thursday and that includes his thoughts on the team's contract situation with OLB T.J. Watt, the health of the squad coming out of minicamp, and the practice starting times for training camp. Alex and I talk about how Watt's contract situation is likely to be the biggest topic of discussion until the team reports to training camp in late July. We also talk about the prospects of any players not being able to practice fully once training camp gets underway. Throughout this show, Alex and I have fairly lengthy discussions about Steelers WR Calvin Austin III, TE Darnell Washington, CB Joey Porter Jr., and T Broderick Jones. Those were triggered by several comments made about those particular players by several members of the offensive coaching staff this past week. Should glove color be important to Porter in 2025? Alex and I make our thoughts on that question well known in this show. We go over our most significant takeaways from the Steelers 2025 mandatory minicamp. We also discuss the prospects of the Steelers adding another playmaker before the start of the 2025 regular season. Former Steelers WR Antonio Brown was unfortunately back in the news on Thursday for something negative, so Alex and I make sure to go over the specifics for that. This 92-minute episode also discusses several other minor topics not noted in the recap. We end this show by answering several emails we received from listeners of the show. steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 12 – Ep. 59: On this episode of The Depot Dive, Ross McCorkle and Joe Clark dive into the Aaron Rodgers signing and the various topics discussed during his introductory press conference. How much say does he want in the offense and what will the dynamic be between him and OC Arthur Smith? Ross gives reasons to get excited for Rodgers given his extensive list of injuries last season and an offensive scheme that will protect him better in Pittsburgh. For the second topic, we talk about the most notable quotes from the various coordinator and coach interviews including Calvin Austin III as the WR2, Derrick Harmon being named a starter and Rodgers being compared to Peyton Manning. We then dive into Adam Schefter's report about Aaron Rodgers being the Steelers' third option and some clarifying comments he made on Wednesday about Justin Fields and Matthew Stafford that were particularly interesting. To wrap things up, we answer a listener question about a game we would like to travel back in time to see in person. Thank you for joining us for this 36-minute episode, and we hope to see your thoughts in the comment section. Call the hotline at (412) 254-3145 and leave us a question for a chance to have it answered in a future episode. You can also text the line if you don't wish to have your voice on the show! Follow us on Twitter: Ross: @Ross_McCorkle Joe: @jclark1233 Steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray shared his initial impressions of Aaron Rodgers, and what changes (if any) Arthur Smith could make to suit Rodgers' strengths. Ray doesn't see too many differences in watching Rodgers vs Mason Rudolph right now. He also notes to be on the lookout for Calvin Austin III to potentially become the WR2. Regarding T.J. Watt, Ray thinks a deal with Watt and the team will eventually get done. Ray says undrafted TE JJ Galbreath has stood out a little so far.

- Was Aaron Rodgers the third option for the Steelers behind Matthew Stafford and Justin Fields? We later hear from Mike Tomlin after minicamp wrapped up. – Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray shared his initial impressions of Aaron Rodgers, and what changes (if any) Arthur Smith could make to suit Rodgers' strengths. Ray doesn't see too many differences in watching Rodgers vs Mason Rudolph right now. He also notes to be on the lookout for Calvin Austin III to potentially become the WR2. Regarding T.J. Watt, Ray thinks a deal with Watt and the team will eventually get done. Ray says undrafted TE JJ Galbreath has stood out a little so far. – An Oakmont check-in with Jeff Hathhorn. – Hodgepodge of Nothingness.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the team's first day of minicamp at its South Side facility. What should we make of Aaron Rodgers' first comments since signing last weekend? Particularly his view of himself as a "servant leader." Can he really make a difference in the locker room? Particularly for young players like Will Howard? And how is he fitting into Arthur Smith's offense alongside names like DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Calvin Austin III, Kaleb Johnson and Pat Freiermuth? Our duo tackles those questions; T.J. Watt's absence from the scene as he searches for a new contract; and news that Derrick Harmon has already seized a starting spot along the defensive line next to Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton. What does that mean for his upside as a rookie?

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from the second day of the team's minicamp at its South Side facility. They recap Arthur Smith's press conference. What did Smith have to say about the popular notion that he and Russell Wilson didn't get along late last season due to Smith not allowing his quarterback to change plays at the line of scrimmage? How does he plan to utilize new weapons like Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf, going so far as to say they didn't bring those guys in to run the wishbone? The guys tackle those questions, then take a deeper look at the offense in general. What will Rodgers' wide receivers look like behind Metcalf. Will Roman Wilson or Calvin Austin III take over that WR2 spot? Or will the Steelers add another receiver via free agency or trade, like Allen Lazard or Keenan Allen? Will the offensive line, including Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones, be able to step up and protect the 41-year-old future Hall of Famer?

New Steelers WR DK Metcalf speaks to reporters at the team's minicamp at its South Side facility. He explains his growing relationship with new QB Aaron Rodgers, including what he learned about him via an offseason throwing session. He also explains how he's fitting into OC Arthur Smith's offense alongside names like Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods, Roman Wilson and Pat Freiermith; and why he wishes he'd gotten a chance to play with George Pickens before he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news LIVE around 5 p.m. Eastern from Oakmont Country Club ahead of the U.S. Open. He reacts to the arrival of Aaron Rodgers at Steelers minicamp. How did the veteran QB look? What should we make of his introductory comments following a long pursuit by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan? And how will he mesh with OC Arthur Smith's offense and targets including DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III? Paul also offers thoughts on T.J. Watt's absence from the mandatory practices. Does it signal real trouble with contract negotiations? Or could it just be posturing? And what impact could it have on the defense's efforts to redeem itself from last year's playoff embarrassment vs. Baltimore? Then later, Paul gives his thoughts on what he's seeing at Oakmont, where top golfers including Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose are gathering to challenge the famed course.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from the first day of the team's minicamp at its South Side facility. They recap QB Aaron Rodgers' introduction to a big crowd of media after he officially signed with the team over the weekend. What was the scene like? What did Rodgers have to say about Mike Tomlin after years of admiring the coach from afar? How is he picking up OC Arthur Smith's offense? And what is he learning about new teammates including DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods, Roman Wilson, Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson? The guys tackle those questions, then react to T.J. Watt's absence from minicamp amid contract negotiations with GM Omar Khan and the team. Is it a big deal? Or a normal course of haggling deals in the NFL?

QB Aaron Rodgers speaks to reporters for the first time since signing with the Steelers over the weekend. He explains how he's assimilating to OC Arthur Smith's offense; meshing with near weapons that include DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Robert Woods, Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson; and his thoughts on playing for coach Mike Tomlin after years of admiration from afar.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes NFL.com's Bucky Brooks to discuss the fallout of QB Aaron Rodgers finally signing with the team officially. Will Rodgers embrace the team's offensive identity under coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith, which is built around a strong running game rather than a flashy passing game? Or will he use his Hall of Fame credentials to push for a more pass-happy attack built around receivers like DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods, Roman Wilson and -- possibly -- free agent additions like Amari Cooper, Allen Lazard and Gabe Davis? Our duo tackles those questions. Then Bucky explains why he likes the way GM Omar Khan has built the team beyond the QB position in recent years, investing in young players including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Joey Porter Jr. and others.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. He gives his thoughts on news that former Buffalo Bills WR Gabe Davis is set to visit the team this week. Is he the right WR2 to play next to DK Metcalf instead of the traded George Pickens? Would Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III be able to push him for time? How will he mesh with QBs Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? Or possibly Aaron Rodgers? And would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be correct to pursue him instead of names like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper, who are also available? Paul tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news. Should the GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers have allocated their offseason budget toward building roster depth for beyond just 2025? With deals similar to the one they made with DK Metcalf? Instead of pursuing a short-term QB solution in Aaron Rodgers? And if they knew Rodgers' indecision would last into OTAs, would they have handled things differently? What are the biggest storylines around OTAs otherwise? Is it the tackle situation with Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? The receivers room with Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III and Robert Woods jockeying for position behind Metcalf? is it Darius Slay Jr.'s arrival in the secondary? Or the re-loaded running back room with Trey Sermon, Kaleb Johnson and Kenneth Gainwell joining Jaylen Warren? Our duo tackles those questions, the Penguins coaching search and College Football Playoff expansion and what it could mean for Pitt and Penn State. Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, the guys analyze the team's recent hot streak. Is new manager Don Kelly making a meaningful difference compared to Derek Shelton? Or is the offense just getting some better luck? Is Kelly's future tied to Ben Cherington's? Or could Bob Nutting retain Kelly and change GMs this offseason? What should we make of how the club is handling young pitchers Bubba Chandler, Carmen Mlodzinski, Mike Burrows and Braxton Ashcraft? And is Henry Davis finally starting to round a corner?

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 national criticism of the team over Aaron Rodgers' absence from OTAs. Do names like Terry Bradshaw and Joy Taylor have a point in calling out Rodgers, GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin for the situation? Or are they overstating the impact of Rodgers' absence, with veterans including Mason Rudolph and others shrugging off outside concerns? Then later, the guys give a first look at other areas of concern. How are tackles Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones looking as they face pressure amid the departure of Dan Moore Jr.? How are new receivers DK Metcalf and Robert Woods assimilating? And are internal options Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson prepared to step up at the position following the George Pickens trade to the Dallas Cowboys?

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap the first day OTAs at the team's South Side facility. What were players saying about Aaron Rodgers as he remains unsigned at the beginning of the offseason program? How much faith do they have in Mason Rudolph as he takes first-team reps for now? How are the receivers looking? From new faces like DK Metcalf and Robert Woods to returning options like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III? And how closely should we be watching tackles Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu in the early going? 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 really be looking at Kirk Cousins as a Plan B to Aaron Rodgers, as reporting from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler suggests? Would the veteran quarterback's production be worth his hefty price tag for general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin? Or are they better off looking internally at options like Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? And what other storylines is Paul monitoring at Steelers OTAs, from the new-look receivers room with DK Metcalf and Robert Woods joining Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III to the battle at tackle highlighting Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? Paul tackles those topics, then recaps a busy weekend for the Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers and the start of their West Coast road trip against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, Derrick Bell joins to discuss if Calvin Austin III should be an extension candidate, the latest surrounding Aaron Rodgers, his top 10 players on the team list, somebody who needs a bigger role in 2025 and much more. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He weighs in on a report from MMQB's Albert Breer that the Steelers inquired about trading for New Orleans Saints receiver Chris Olave earlier in the offseason. Were they right to make their move for DK Metcalf instead? Should general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin mount another attempt to acquire Olave as a No. 2 after sending George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys? And how much confidence should we have in the current receivers room that includes names like Robert Woods, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Paul weighs in on those question, the NFL's decision not the ban the "tush push" popularized by the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles; and the conclusion of the Pirates' three-game series with the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the advantages DK Metcalf gives the team as its No. 1 WR in place of George Pickens, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys earlier this month. What does Metcalf do better than Pickens? Will he be a better fit in a WRs room with names including Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods and Roman Wilson? And how quickly can he generate chemistry with QBs including Mason Rudolph and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions, plus lessons GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin should take from the ill-fated 2022 NFL draft in which they selected Pickens, Austin, Kenny Pickett, DeMarvin Leal and others. Then in the third segment, the guys ponder whether Aaron Rodgers or the offensive line -- including young players like Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick -- are more important to the team for its upcoming late-season grind.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Will Aaron Rodgers sign with the Steelers before OTAs, scheduled for next week? How much will it hurt preparation for coach Mike Tomlin's team if he doesn't? What could it mean for quarterbacks already under contract, including Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, or the chemistry with wide receivers including DK Metcalf, Robert Woods, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? And what should we make of comments Rodgers' biographer made last week? Paul tackles those questions, then gives his thoughts on a disastrous Pirates weekend series that included a brilliant Paul Skenes start wasted by a lack of offense.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko ponder WR2 options for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin following the George Pickens trade to the Dallas Cowboys. Should the team sign a big name like Keenan Allen, Amari Cooper or Gabe Davis to line up across from DK Metcalf this season? Should they make a trade for a name like Allen Lazard if Aaron Rodgers follows through on signing to play QB? Or should they look internally to names like Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Robert Woods? Our duo tackles those questions, then offers reactions to the team's 2025 schedule -- released this week -- that includes a tough late-season stretch against the Bills, Ravens and Lions.

May 15 – Ep. 55: On this episode of The Depot Dive, Joe Clark and Ross McCorkle kick things off by discussing the 2025 schedule release and how it's similar (and different) from last year's version. Are they set up for another December letdown? We give some of our way-too-early predictions to open up the show. For the next topic, we talk about the George Pickens trade that happened last week and whether or not we like the trade value in return. We also talk about the current WR room and if we are buying what Omar Khan was selling about the 2025 situation being way different. How large of a role will Calvin Austin III play and could the Steelers look to extend him this offseason? For the third topic, we push back on some comments made by Ryan Clark on ESPN about Mike Tomlin's message going stale and how he should leave the team. To wrap things up we answer a listener question about the 12 draft picks the Steelers are projected to have. Thank you for joining us for this 38-minute episode, and we hope to see your thoughts in the comment section. Call the hotline at (412) 254-3145 and leave us a question for a chance to have it answered in a future episode. You can also text the line if you don't wish to have your voice on the show! Follow us on Twitter: Ross: @Ross_McCorkle Joe: @jclark1233 Steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 12, 2025 - For Episode 1,530 on this Monday afternoon, Ross McCorkle explains why, with George Pickens off the roster, the Steelers should look to extend Calvin Austin III. steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steelers GM Omar Khan speaks with reporters in conjunction with the team's rookie minicamp at its South Side facility. He explains why the team decided to trade George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys this week; why he likes his depth at WR behind DK Metcalf with names like Roman Wilson, Robert Woods and Calvin Austin III; and why he didn't make a move with Pickens before the NFL draft.

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 the team's decision to trade WR George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. Why would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make this move now? After the NFL draft? If they thought they might trade Pickens, why didn't they draft a starter-quality receiver to pair with DK Metcalf? Could the team still sign a free agent like Keenan Allen or Amari Cooper? And could internal options like Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods and Roman Wilson step up? Our duo tackles those questions and more beyond the receivers room. How might the deal impact the team's pursuit of Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency? And is the team clearly signaling an interest in acquiring a QB in the deep 2026 draft, the could include names such as Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Do the Steelers have enough depth at receiver now that Robert Woods has joined Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson behind DK Metcalf and George Pickens? Or will those three still have to prove themselves as reliable pieces for coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith? And is the team's talk of becoming more physical following the NFL draft legit now that names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black are in the fold? Paul tackles those questions; ponders the desirability of the Penguins job for NHL coaches; and wonders whether it's time to worry about Paul Skenes after his rocky Thursday start cost the Pirates a series win vs. the Chicago Cubs.

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.?

On their weekly Steelers NFL mock draft tracker video, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter analyze the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet and the impact NFL free agency is having on them. -Should the Steelers still be considering Day 1 WR targets including Emeka Egbuka, Luther Burden III and Matthew Golden? Or did the DK Metcalf trade fill the need at that position alongside names like George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? -What do the Steelers need in a defensive tackle after choosing not to address the spot in free agency? Are they all in on great run-pass combos like Derrick Harmon and Kenneth Grant? Or will they look at more specialized names like Darius Alexander? -Where could they choose a QB after missing out on younger free agents like Justin Fields and Sam Darnold? Is Jaxson Dart on Day 1 a live option? Or should projected later-round picks like Will Howard still be their focus at this position? How does the signing of Kenneth Gainwell affect plans for the RB room? Will they bring in a big name like Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton? Or are their later-round names to watch who could make sense in a committee with Gainwell and Jaylen Warren? -And will GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider drafting a CB early? Or are the Steelers finally well stocked at that spot after signing Darius Slay and Brandin Echols to a group that already included Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr. and Beanie Bishop?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the continuing fallout from the team's moves in NFL free agency. Can DK Metcalf and George Pickens coexist in the receivers room, considering their similar skillsets? Can any QB -- be it Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson or Mason Rudolph -- keep them both happy? Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider trading Pickens for draft capital? And looking to the NFL draft and names like Matthew Golden, Emeka Egbuka and Luther Burden III for more help? Or should they feel good about having Metcalf, Pickens, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Pat Freiermuth as targets? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Among them? Is Darius Slay too old to make a big impact on the secondary after leaving the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles for the Steelers? Or can he lift a group that includes Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr. and Beanie Bishop? What kind of mentor can he be for Porter Jr.? And what other free agent moves may be coming as Week 1 of the signing period comes to a close?

Steelers receiver DK Metcalf is introduced by the team after it acquired him from the Seattle Seahawks in a trade this week. Metcalf explains how he intends to work with George Pickens and other receivers including Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III; his read on the quarterback situation, with the team reportedly considering names including Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency; and joining the organization led by GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin.

The Post-Gazette Christopher Carter and Adam Bittner react live to news that the team has traded for Seattle Seahawks star DK Metcalf and signed him to a reported 5-year $150-million extension. How will he fit into the receiving corps with George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin pay the right price of a second-round draft pick and a huge contract for the 27-year-old? And what does this mean for the QB choice of Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers or someone else?

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 agreeing to a two-year contract with the New York Jets instead of the Steelers? Did Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make the right choice to let them go? Or should the Steelers have pushed harder to match the Jets' offer? What's next at quarterback? Do all signs point to Aaron Rodgers? Or should Russell Wilson still be an option? Paul gives his thoughts on those questions, then reacts to the trade for DK Metcalf and the signing of Darius Slay. How will Metcalf fit in the existing receivers room that includes George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? And how much can Slay help the secondary alongside Joey Porter Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Did the Steelers miss out on a premium fix to their wide receivers problem, following news than San Francisco 49ers star Deebo Samuel is going to the Washington Commanders in exchange for just a fifth-round pick? Should GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the front office have beaten that price to add to their group that already includes George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Could they still grab a trade target like Tyreek Hill or Cooper Kupp? Or should they focus on NFL free agency and the NFL draft, which includes likely Day 1 options such as Matthew Golden, Emeka Egbuka and Luther Burden III? Paul tackles those questions and more on the Steelers front. Then pivots to another ugly weekend for the Penguins; the return of goalie Tristan Jarry; Pirates spring training and the Pitt basketball team's latest loss, which further dashes their March Madness hopes.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the NFL combine, which wrapped up over the weekend in Indianapolis. Will GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be intrigued receivers like Matthew Golden and Emeka Egbuka, who are likely to be taken on Day 1 of the NFL draft? Or are there enough possible playmakers in later rounds that they could make their move to add to their group that includes George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson later on? With names including Savion Williams, Jack Bech, Isaiah Bond, Jayden Higgins and Elic Ayomanor? Our duo tackles those questions and more in the later segments. Could the Steelers be looking to take a QB on Day 3? If so, do Riley Leonard and Will Howard make the most sense? And how do combine trends the last few years impact the decisions Khan, Tomlin and the front office will make?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern, with a specific focus on the NFL combine in Indianapolis. What were Paul's big headlines for the week? Which prospects are standing out to him the most? Is Emeka Egbuka the best fit among wide receivers for the passing game alongside George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Is a QB like Jaxson Dart worth considering? And if so, how high should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider selecting him? Could Penn State tight end Tyler Warren make any sense as a first-round pick, despite the presence of Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington on the roster? And which cornerbacks could be good running mates for Joey Porter Jr.? Will Johnson? Benjamin Morrison? Darien Porter? Or someone else? Then later, Paul gives his thoughts on a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Las Vegas Raiders plan to target both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson in free agency, creating some competition with the Steelers for their services at QB.

Hour 1--J&J Show Wed., 2/26/25--Grizzlies get a big win in "Call 12" game vs. the Grizzlies on 92.9 FM ESPN + CALVIN AUSTIN III LIVE IN-STUDIO with J&J on Steelers NFL Journey on 92.9FM full 3126 Wed, 26 Feb 2025 20:14:15 +0000 gqPnAx1wysRTManuFF4NkRFG70MNtaXH sports Jason & John sports Hour 1--J&J Show Wed., 2/26/25--Grizzlies get a big win in "Call 12" game vs. the Grizzlies on 92.9 FM ESPN + CALVIN AUSTIN III LIVE IN-STUDIO with J&J on Steelers NFL Journey on 92.9FM Local columnists and hoops insiders Jason Smith and John Martin appear daily 11am - 2pm on 929FM ESPN/680AM! 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Sports False https://player.amperwavepodcasting.com?feed-link=https%3A%2F%2Frss.amperwave.n

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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 general manager Omar Khan's comments at the NFL combine about wanting to lock T.J. Watt up with an extension for the rest of his career? Is that the right move? Or is the team in a rebuilding mode where it should be looking to trade him for draft picks? Could the Steelers trade for Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill, as ESPN analyst Domonique Foxworth suggested this week? And how would he fit in a group with George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? And of course, Paul gives his thoughts on Khan's comments about the quarterback and running back situations. Who seems most likely to be the choice between Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Matthew Stafford and Aaron Rodgers? And what are the chances Najee Harris returns alongside Jaylen Warren? If you haven't already, subscribe to the sports department's YouTube channel so you don't miss a video with our reporters, columnists and their special guests.

February 24, 2025 - For Episode 1,453 this Monday afternoon, Ross McCorkle discusses why he'd like to see Calvin Austin III receive a contract extension this offseason to keep him in Pittsburgh beyond 2025. steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to preview the NFL combine this week in Indianapolis from a Steelers perspective. Is defensive line the most important position group for coach Mike Tomlin to watch? Why are names including Walter Nolen, Kenneth Grant, Shemar Stewart, Derrick Harmon, Alfred Collins, Tyleik Williams, Shemar Turner and Deone Walker at the top of Ray's list as best first for the Steelers? And how would they mix into the team's group that already includes names like Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Larry Ogunjobi? Later, Ray and Chris ponder their biggest questions for Khan when he speaks this week. Will he give any insight on the QB situation and the decision on names including Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers and others? Will Najee Harris return? Or will Khan try to take a younger player in the NFL draft? And how will they add to the receivers room around George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Then in the third segment, our duo breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of this draft class overall.

Welcome to Steelers Morning Rush, our new daily short-form podcast with Alan Saunders, giving a longer perspective on a single news topic surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers or the National Football League. Today, it's the available upgrades for the team at the wide receiver position -- and what's lacking from that group. The Steelers have been linked to San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel over the last few days, and many fans have expressed frustration at the team once again finding an older, less-expensive option instead of landing a true No. 1 wide receiver. The only problem with that frustration is that the Steelers do not have a true No. 1 wide receiver available to them. The Cincinnati Bengals are almost certainly not going to let Tee Higgins come here, and after him, it's a steep drop-off in terms of who is available. Chris Godwin, coming off a major knee surgery, is the only other top free agent set to hit the market, with second-tier options like Amari Cooper, D'Andre Hopkins, Stefon Diggs and Keenan Allen all aging, coming off poor seasons, injuries, or all of the above. The 2025 NFL Draft has no sure things in terms of top wide receivers. Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka appears to be a can't-miss prospect, but has a lower ceiling than most players considered in the first round. The rest appear to be dart throws of varying levels of risk or smaller receivers that duplicate what the Steelers already have in Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III. Simply put, a major upgrade at wide receiver won't be easy to come by. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes former Pitt football standout Tre Tipton to react to Kenny Pickett's Super Bowl victory with the Eagles. Does Pickett get too much hate from Pittsburgh fans for the way his tenure ended here, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields taking over QB duties? Is Pittsburgh generally a tough city for athletes? And what coach GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin do to get the right QB in place for the long-term, either free agency or the NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how best the Steelers can get the most out of WR George Pickens. And where Calvin Austin III fits in this receivers room long-term.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to colleague Gerry Dulac's report about friction between OC Arthur Smith and QB Russell Wilson this past season. Why didn't Smith want Wilson changing plays at the line of scrimmage? Could their friction prevent them from working together next season? Is this another reason to believe the Steelers will prefer Justin Fields for 2025? And what level of involvement did coach Mike Tomlin have in the situation? Our duo tackles those questions, then turns attention to receivers. Is trading George Pickens a serious possibility for GM Omar Khan and this front office? Where would that leave the receivers room beyond Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? And is Cooper Kupp a worthwhile trade target after the Rams made him available on the NFL trade market this week?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Specifically, he gives his thoughts on news that Rams receiver Cooper Kupp expects to be traded this offseason. Should Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin look to add him to the team's receiver corps? How would he fit with what Arthur Smith's offense already has in George Pickens and Calvin Austin III? And how would such a move influence the team's NFL draft and free agency plans? Later, Paul checks in on Pitt basketball after yet another costly defeat Monday against Virginia. And he weighs in on top Pirates storylines with spring training set to begin in a little over a week.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo react to news that Aaron Curry will not return as Steelers ILBs coach. Is this an opportunity for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin to shake up the defensive staff under DC Teryl Austin? Could former New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo be the big acquisition needed give a jolt to what's become a stale defense? How much could he help players like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson at the ILB position? And what impact could improved LB play have on the rest of the defense that includes stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Joey Porter Jr.? Later, the guys take an early look at NFL free agency. Is Tee Higgins a live option to join George Pickens and Calvin Austin III in the WRs room? Would Javon Hargrave, D.J. Jones, B.J. Hill and/or Javon Kinlaw make sense as DT additions? And is Byron Murphy a name worth considering in the secondary? Our guys tackle those question, then ponder the running back market to possibly replace Najee Harris in the backfield. Would Khan really get older at the position by signing free agents like Aaron Jones or Nick Chubb? Would names like A.J. Dillon, Javonte Williams Alexander Mattison really be upgrades on Harris? Or should the Steelers be looking to the NFL draft?

On their weekly Steelers NFL mock draft tracker podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko react to the week in projected picks for coach Mike Tomlin's team. Does receiver make sense as the top early position for GM Omar Khan to target? Has the franchise lost its touch in grabbing future stars at the position in the later rounds? With George Pickens, Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Calvin Austin III and others all struggling to live up to their hype to varying degrees? Is there any chance top prospects like Travis Hunter or Tetairoa McMillan could fall to the team at No. 21? Or do names like Emeka Egbuka, Luther Burden III and Matthew Golden make more sense? And can Tre Harris and Isaiah Bond assert themselves in the mix as well? Our duo tackles those questions, the looks at some names on the QB and DL radars. Does Louisville's Tyler Shough make any sense as a relatively immobile option who will also be 26 as a rookie? Should we read anything into Tomlin's interactions with Deone Walker of Kentucky at the Senior Bowl this week? And is Kenneth Grant another defensive lineman who makes a lot of sense?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to tackle the hot topics in Pittsburgh sports, starting with the Steelers' struggles at the wide receiver position in 2024. Was owner Art Rooney II just being realistic about the team's lack of talent in the passing game when stating his preference to build around the running game earlier this week? Who or what is most responsible for the current mess in the WR room. Is it former GM Kevin Colbert and current GM Omar Khan for failing to cultivate depth? Is it Mike Tomlin's personality management of players like George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool? Was it moving on from JuJu Smith-Schuster, who's now an important piece for Patrick Mahomes and the Super Bowl-bound Kansas City Chiefs? And where do depth options like Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson fit into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to headlines on the college front. How crucial was Pitt basketball's victory against the North Carolina Tar Heels this week? Is Jeff Capel starting to figure out how to better use his forwards around star guards like Jaland Lowe and Ishmael Leggett? And on the Penn State front, what does the Jim Knowles hiring say about James Franklin's intent to compete at a championship level? And does early 2025 College Football Playoff hype make sense for this team with the return of key pieces like Drew Allar, Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen? The later, the guys react to the Pirates' sluggishness in MLB free agency. What is the primary reason GM Ben Cherington has made only small moves like signing Andrew McCutchen and Adam Frazier or trading for Spencer Horwitz so far? Is TV revenue an issue? Is saving for a Paul Skenes extension a possibility? And how much trouble are Cherington and manager Derek Shelton in? Should we interpret the inactivity as a signal that they feel comfortable?

January 8, 2025 - For Episode 1,406 on this Wednesday afternoon, Ross McCorkle calls for Calvin Austin III to be a big part of the game plan in the Wild Card game versus the Ravens. steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices