Podcast appearances and mentions of calvin austin iii

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

Tigers & Steelers star Calvin Austin III in-studio wtih Jason & John 2/26/25 full 2485 Wed, 26 Feb 2025 19:07:36 +0000 OhWWRNGn6w3csLtQcSI2vZttQsh4Ly5X sports 92.9 Featured Podcast sports Tigers & Steelers star Calvin Austin III in-studio wtih Jason & John 2/26/25 92.9 ESPN FM/680 AM Featured Podcast of the Day 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Sports False https://player.amperwavepodcasting.com?feed-link=https%3A%2F%2Frss.amperwave.net%

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?

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 what type of wide receiver the Steelers. This week on Morning Rush and Afternoon Drive, Alan and Smitty have talked about potential free agent or trade acquisitions like Tee Higgins, Chris Godwin, Deebo Samuel, Amari Cooper and others. But how do they fit into what the Steelers already have at wide receiver with George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson, and Arthur Smith's offensive scheme? Alan breaks it down. #steelers #herewego #nfl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 analyze the team's QB situation. Do Mike Tomlin's comments in his season-ending news conference Tuesday indicate a preference for Justin Fields to start in 2025? Or does the coach still prefer Russell Wilson as he did for much of 2024? And how seriously should we take the chances of an outside candidate, either from the NFL draft or free agency? In segment two, Chris and Ray ponder George Pickens' future with the organization. Does he create too many headaches to bring back? Or does the offense's thin receivers room that includes names like Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson, Roman Wilson and Mike Williams make him too valuable? The our duo wraps the show by explaining why OC Arthur Smith likely isn't on the chopping block, despite his unit falling short down the stretch of season. And what he can do to get more out of the unit and pieces like Pat Freiermuth and Jaylen Warren moving forward.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. How much blame does Steelers OC Arthur Smith deserve for the team's late-season meltdown and NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens? How much more should he have gotten from quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson? Why didn't the running game led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren live up to expectations? Should he have gotten the ball to targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III more often? And what responsibility does he bare for the lack of development from young offensive linemen including Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? Paul tackles those topics, then gives his thoughts on Penguins goalie Tristan Jarry being placed on waivers. Was this the right move from GM Kyle Dubas and coach Mike Sullivan? What's next for the franchise at the position beyond backup Alex Nedeljkovic? And could a shake up in goal help Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang in their pursuit of a Stanley Cup playoffs berth?

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

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Can QB Russell Wilson shake of his string of costly turnovers and build passing game momentum with targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and Mike Williams? How will Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris manage in the running game? Were offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Dan Moore Jr. able to provide better protection? How did Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr and DeShon Elliott bounce back after a tough few weeks for the pass defense? And were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith able to get better pressure on Bengals QB Joe Burrow?

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 17 matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. Were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to bounce back from a shaky performance against the Ravens? What difference did the return of George Pickens, DeShon Elliott, Donte Jackson and Larry Ogunjobi from injury make? Were Russell Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and the passing game able to get back on track with Pickens in the lineup? And how did Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren look after some inconsistent weeks in the running game?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers considering bringing back Diontae Johnson to bolster their receiving corps, even with George Pickens returning from injury and Calvin Austin III showing promise? Is T.J. Watt healthy enough to make the big plays this defense needs in NFL Week 17 vs. the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs? And should we be concerned at all about Russell Wilson after his costly turnovers Saturday against the Ravens? Paul tackles those questions and more on the Steelers front. Then offers his thoughts on James Franklin, Penn State and the College Football Playoff first round this past weekend. Then wraps the show with reaction to Andrew McCutchen's return to the Pirates.

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 16 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Did Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and the running game bounce back after a tough outing against the Eagles? How did Russell Wilson, Mike Williams, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and the passing game perform without the injured George Pickens? What kind of a factor was T.J. Watt defensively after the injury he battled over the past week? And how well did teammates including Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Patrick Queen execute in slowing down Ravens stars including Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and Zay Flowers?

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to a costly NFL Week 16 loss to the Ravens in Baltimore. Can coach Mike Tomlin fix his struggling defense amid injuries to T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott, Larry Ogunjobi and Donte Jackson? Is the defensive line a problem with names including Dean Lowry and Isaiahh Loudermilk not producing? How much blame does QB Russell WIlson deserve for a pair of turnovers that sidetracked an otherwise productive day from Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and Calvin Austin III within OC Arthur Smith's offense? When might George Pickens return from injury? And where does this loss leave the Steelers in the AFC North race with a tough matchup against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs looming on Christmas.

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 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens and how the banged-up Steelers might have to attack them. After a lackluster offensive showing for Pittsburgh against the Philadelphia Eagles last week, the game plan for the Baltimore Ravens should be obvious: sell out to stop Najee Harris and dare Russell Wilson and his shorthanded receivers room to beat them. Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan both professed their comfort in the group the Steelers have, even after the team tried and failed to land Brandon Aiyuk in a trade from the San Francisco 49ers. Now, it's time for Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson and company to prove that their faith wasn't misguided. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news around 5 p.m., with a specific focus on the Steelers' NFL Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Is QB Russell Wilson taking too much of the blame? Why do some fans still want to see Justin Fields? How can OC Arthur Smith get more out of targets including Calvin Austin III, Mike Williams, Pat Freiermuth and Van Jefferson? How much blame do GM Omar Khan and GM Mike Tomlin deserve for not giving him more? What went wrong for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren in the running game? And are Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and the secondary in trouble? Especially with T.J. Watt injured? 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.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's show, we discuss injury updates on TJ Watt, George Pickens, DeShon Elliott, Larry Ogunjobi, Donte Jackson and Justin Fields. We then dive into expectations for Hard Knocks, if Calvin Austin III is a legit weapon at this level, if the team is too volatile and much more. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Steelers' NFL Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Was OC Arthur Smith's game plan too vanilla for key pieces including Russell Wilson, Pat Freiermuth and Najee Harris to get results amid the injury to George Pickens? What will T.J. Watt's injury mean for the defense with key games against the Ravens and Chiefs looming? When will receivers including Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson and Mike Williams step up? How much blame does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for clock management gaffes? And how did Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr. and the defense manage to keep Saquon Barkley in check while getting dominated by other playmakers including Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith?

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' NFL Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Why couldn't QB Russell Wilson, TE Pat Freiermuth and the offense take advantage of a pair of early fumbles by their opponent? How much blame do Najee Harris, Calvin Austin III and Darnell Washington deserve for fumbling and drawing costly flags, respectively? And where does the receiver group go from here after an ugly day amid George Pickens' injury? Our duo tackles those questions and also ponders an ugly defensive performance. Why did Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and the secondary struggle so badly to contain QB Jalen Hurts and receivers A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith? What did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Co. do well to slow Eagles star Saquon Barkley? And what's the latest on injuries sustained by Watt and CB Donte Jackson?

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 news that WR George Pickens may miss more time than expected. How can QB Russell Wilson and OC Arthur Smith compensate for the injury? Will we continue to see more of depth receivers including Mike Williams, Scotty Miller, Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III? And could the Justin Fields package make another appearance starting with the Week 15 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: Does Pro Football Focus value the wrong things when grading Minkah Fitzpatrick, especially in comparison to DeShon Elliott? And what should we make of the Eagles right now? From Saquon Barkley's brilliance to the purported feuding between Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news. Specifically, he wonders whether the Steelers will re-sign George Pickens this offseason if QB Russell Wilson and the passing game prove they can succeed with names like Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Darnell Washington, Scotty Miller, Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson amid Pickens' injury. Will Pickens be worth the headaches he causes? Or could coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan look to the NFL draft for a replacement after next season? Later, Paul gives his thoughts on the Pirates' trade with the Cleveland Guardians for 1B Spencer Horwitz at the MLB Winter Meetings. Will Horwitz make them better at 1B? Should fans have been hoping for a more proven option? Will the rotation miss Luis Ortiz? And what should be the next orders of business in MLB free agency and the trade market?

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap coach Mike Tomlin's weekly news conference ahead of an NFL Week 15 showdown with the in-state rival Philadelphia Eagles. Is it possible receiver George Pickens will miss not just this game, but crucial matchups with the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs that follow? How will OC Arthur Smith adjust the passing game for QB Russell Wilson and top remaining targets including Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Calvin Austin III, Darnell Washington and Van Jefferson? What can we expect from Larry Ogunjobi and DeShon Elliott this week amid their injuries? And how would their possible absence affect the defense's ability to stop Eagles stars Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news, with a specific focus on the Steelers' NFL Week 15 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. Is coach Mike Tomlin's team catching the cross-state rival at the right time amid perceived turmoil between star WR A.J. Brown and QB Jalen Hurts? Are the Eagles' struggles passing something T.J. Wat, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and the defense can take advantage of? And how will Russell Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Calvin Austin III and the Steelers' passing game manage against a good Eagles secondary without George Pickens? Paul gives his thoughts on those topics, then reacts to Juan Soto's mega deal with the New York Mets and what it might mean for the Pirates, who've been quiet so far in MLB free agency.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news. Is the Steelers' decision to trade WR Diontae Johnson for CB Donte Jackson looking good, now that coach John Harbaugh's cryptic comments about him cast doubt on his future with the AFC North rival Ravens? How should the Steelers be feeling about the guys who've replaced Johnson behind George Pickens, including Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson? And what will it take for the Russell Wilson and the team Steelers to beat Lamar Jackson and Co. in the division race now that they have a 1.5-game lead, following the Ravens' loss this week vs. Philadelphia? Paul tackles those topics, plus Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi calling his team's 7-5 season a "success" despite a five-game losing streak that spoiled a 7-0 start.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's show, we discuss the latest injury news surrounding Alex Highsmith, Cory Trice Jr., Monty Adams and Calvin Austin III. Speaking of Calvin, has his emergence lessened the need for the team to go find a WR? We update on the injury of Roman Wilson, discuss why Zach Frazier can't wait for Browns week, the practice habits of George Pickens and if we believe Russell Wilson will be back in Pittsburgh. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 the impending return of pass rusher Alex Highsmith on defense. How can he be a gamechanger for this defense as it looks to do a better job against QB Jameis Winston and the Cleveland Browns in NFL Week 14 thank it did in their first matchup a couple weeks ago? And what will his availability mean for fellow pass rushers T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig? Offensively, our duo weighs how Russell Wilson's decision making has changed the offense since he took over for Justin Fields and helped targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and other gain more yards after the catch. Then Chris and Ray wrap the show with a look at the AFC playoff race and where the Steelers fit in it with teams like the Bills, Chiefs, Ravens, Broncos, Chargers and Texans.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's show, we discuss Mike Tomlin's Hard Knocks debut performance, as the world got a look into exactly who and what Mike Tomlin is. Could this be leveraged into being a more attractive place for free agents? Baltimore Ravens WR Diontae Johnson has been suspended by the team for refusing to enter their last game. What do we make of that situation? Calvin Austin III got in a limited practice as he remains in concussion protocol. Alex Highsmith and Monty Adams both practiced in limited capacity as they work their way back from injuries. The team waived RB Jonathan Ward as they prepare to activate Cory Trice Jr. from IR. Who would write Mike Tomlin's biography? How can the Steelers fix their zone defense woes? Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's NFL Week 13 victory against the Bengals in Cincinnati, in which QB Russell Wilson passed for over 400 yards. How dangerous can this offense be with Wilson at the helm? And to what degree has he transformed this unit in his image in just six games under OC Arthur Smith? How important were RBs Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris to Wilson's big day? And how much credit does Wilson deserve for getting lots of targets involved, including George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Pat Freiermuth? Our duo tackles those topics and also reacts to the defensive performance, noting big days from players including T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig and Donte Jackson in slowing the dynamic Bengals trio of Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the Steelers' NFL Week 13 win against the Bengals in Cincinnati. Did Russell Wilson and the offense prove they're finding the balance they've long sought? What does it mean that Wilson is getting so many different targets involved in the passing game, from George Pickens, to Calvin Austin III, to Pat Freiermuth? How much credit does Najee Harris deserve for his efficiency in the running game? And are Broderick Jones, Dan Moore Jr. and the offensive line finding their groove after shutting down dangerous Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks defense. Did turnovers forced by T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig make up for some missed opportunities for the pass rush in previous games? How should we balance the big plays on defense with the fact that they gave up over 30 points? And are Joey Porter Jr.'s five penalties in the game a concern? Then later, Chris and Ray wrap the show by analyzing Pickens' unsportsmanlike conduct penalties and ponder where the Steelers fit in the AFC North race with the Ravens after they lost to the Eagles on Sunday.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to react to receiver George Pickens' latest outburst in his team's NFL Week 12 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Was the scrap with Browns CB Greg Newsome II just the latest example of Pickens failing to lose with grace? Or does coach Mike Tomlin have a bigger behavioral issue on his hands? How do Pickens' maturity issues compare to headaches created by predecessors like Antonio Brown and Chase Claypool? And is Pickens feeling the pressure of being the Steelers' one consistent receiver to this point, with Calvin Austin III, Mike Williams and Van Jefferson all struggling to draw regular targets? Our duo tackles those questions and more in the later segments. Including: Should we worry about the defense in late-game scenarios now that it's yielded final drive touchdowns in three of its last six outings? Is the unit too reliant on T.J. Watt to make game-clinching plays? Should Russell Wilson and the Steelers really be underdogs to Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and the Bengals this week? What should we make of Week 12 results involving the Chiefs, Texans and Broncos? And what should we watch for in the AFC North rival Ravens' Monday Night Football matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers?

On the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to react to the team's NFL Week 12 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Offensively, what should we make of the late surge from Russell Wilson, Calvin Austin III and the offense after a sluggish first half? Was the Justin Fields package a true spark? Or did it leave the unit disjointed at times? What was going on with George Pickens as some of his frustration boiled over? And what should we make of another game where Jaylen Warren was more efficient than Najee Harris in the running game? Are duo tackles those questions, plus looks back on some controversial Mike Tomlin coaching decisions that proved pivotal. Then they wrap the show talking defense. Was the Steelers' pass rush as bad as it seemed? Or did Jameis Winston, Jerry Jeudy and the Browns just make some impressive plays in the face of pressure from T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig and Cam Heyward? And what should we make of the secondary's performance with names including Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and Donte Jackson allowing some key plays to go Cleveland's way?