Podcast appearances and mentions of joey porter jr

In this clip from the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze which Steelers have seen their stock drop the most during the NFL preseason. Has Cory Trice Jr. run out of time to prove he can stay healthy and earn a cornerback spot behind Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr.? Is Will Howard in danger of landing on IR or even losing his roster spot amid strong outings by Skylar Thompson in the competition to back up Mason Rudolph and Aaron Rodgers? Why hasn't Robert Woods been able to hold off names like Scotty Miller and Roman Wilson in the receivers battle behind DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III? Is DeMarvin Leal officially a bust on the defensive line? And why has the running game been so week? Do offensive linemen including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier deserve the blame? Or are RBs like Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson showing shortcomings as well? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider welcomes Greg Auman of the NFL on Fox to preview the joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ahead of a preseason game this weekend. How true is Aaron Rodgers' statement that he and the offense can learn more from joint practices than they can from exhibition games, when teams typically keep defenses vanilla to disguise what they're working on? How will Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles, a renowned defensive mind, challenge Rodgers and other key offensive pieces like DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Zach Frazier and others? And can T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr. keep the defensive momentum going against Buccaneers threats Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans and others? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to Mike Tomlin's statement Thursday that Jalen Ramsey will be the team's No. 1 corner. Is that the right role for the veteran acquired in the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade? Should Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr. be getting more consideration? Can Ramsey still move around the defense as some have hoped in the No. 1 role? And what does it mean for depth corners like Brandin Echols, Cory Trice Jr. and others fighting to make the team? Paul tackles those questions, then ponders whether NFL preseason games are still useful, following Tomlin's announcement that most starters including Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and others will not play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend.

Post-Gazette insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap the Steelers' joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Acrisure Stadium. The explain how key matchups including Jalen Ramsey vs. Mike Evans and Zach Frazier vs. Vita Vea provided the big highlights for the day; why this practice may be the most work Aaron Rodgers gets against another team in the NFL preseason; Kaleb Johnson's need to improve in pass protection if he hopes to challenge for playing time in the backfield with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell; Baker Mayfield's stern test for DBs including Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr.; and the continued excellence of defensive rookies Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black.

Live around 5 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to recent comments by Steelers coach Mike Tomlin in which he suggested his defense has "historic" potential. Why would Tomlin -- who's known for choosing his words carefully -- make such a bold declaration publicly? Is he trying to motivate or set a standard for his unit let by Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Jalen Ramsey? Or does he simply like the pieces he has in place that much? And can the unit really live up to those expectations? Especially with younger players like Joey Porter Jr., Payton Wilson and Derrick Harmon playing key roles? Paul weighs in on those questions and the Pirates' blowout loss Tuesday against the Milwaukee Brewers that marked yet another low point in an ugly season for GM Ben Cherington's team.

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Ramsey said Joey Porter Jr. wants to do it and will have his time. Ramsey told Ryan Clark on The Pivot it's the most fun training camp he's been a part of and most he's enjoyed football. Will Howard is not ruling out playing this preseason. Dom would trade Cam Heyward to Cleveland and is fed up with contract discussions.

Ramsey said Joey Porter Jr. wants to do it and will have his time. Ramsey told Ryan Clark on The Pivot it's the most fun training camp he's been a part of and most he's enjoyed football. Ramsey said it can be a random Tuesday and Mike Tomlin will have players ready to run through a brick wall.

“Jalen is still Jalen. I'm still that one. I'm still the one they were looking up to, I'm still the one they will be taking parts of their game from trying to copy mine, I'm still that.” Jalen Ramsey responds to the doubters As our Training Camp tour continues, we visiting Jalen in his new NFL home, and sit down with the three-time All‑Pro cornerback as he embarks on a bold new journey with the Pittsburgh Steelers. After cementing his legacy with a Super Bowl win and with Pro Bowl honors in Jacksonville, Los Angeles, and Miami-Jalen brings his unmatched skill set and swagger to one of the NFL's most storied franchises. We explore the motivations behind the blockbuster June 30, 2025 trade, what it means to don the iconic black and gold, and how Pittsburgh's aggressive 2025 Super Bowl push aligns with his championship aspirations  Jalen reflects on his football evolution—how his position versatility (cornerback, potential safety) and league-wide respect make him more than just "another star" on the roster, but a cornerstone of a retooled defense aiming to recapture past glory. As he joins a defense stacked with names like T.J. Watt, Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr, and a team led by veteran QB Aaron Rodgers, Jalen makes one thing clear: he's still that guy. And now, he's exactly where he's supposed to be. We break down how he'll complement fellow veterans and what his arrival signals about Pittsburgh's shift toward a win-now mentality during Aaron Rodgers' anticipated final NFL season. This isn't just about football—it's about fit. Jalen talks about how his mentality now mirrors the city itself: blue-collar, unapologetic, and built on pride, toughness, and resilience. He shares how the Steel City has reignited his fire—how he's leaned into being a mentor and a menace, all while preparing to help this storied franchise chase another Lombardi. Join us for a raw, unfiltered look at an athlete who's still got it—not just on the field, but in his leadership, swagger, and hunger to win. Thank you to our friends at Monarch Money for sponsoring this episode, Check them out here and use code PIVOT to get 50% off your first year. https://www.monarchmoney.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Cam Heyward contract dispute with the Steelers live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Does Heyward really have leverage after the moves GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin made to solidify the defensive line this offseason? From drafting Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black to signing free agents like Daniel Ekuale, does the team have the necessary depth should Heyward decide to sit out regular season games? And how much worse would DC Teryl Austin's unit be overall without Heyward but with names like T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr., Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson? Paul tackles those questions and more.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo discuss burning topics heading into the final week of Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Is depth at receiver still a concern behind DK Metcalf? Or have Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller done enough in the eyes of GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin to resist a free agent signing or trade involving veterans such a Amari Cooper or Allen Lazard? And where does the injured Calvin Austin III fit into that conversation? Then later, the guys ponder which depth corners are best positioned to make the 53-man roster behind Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr. and Jalen Ramsey. Will Brandin Echols or Beanie Bishop ultimately get the nod as DC Teryl Austin begins the process of paring down his roster in the coming weeks? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

The Steelers backup QBs looked good on Saturday. Will Mason Rudolph become the fan's choice once again? Can Skylar Thompson make the team? Joe references Brady's first year in Tampa has a guideline for Rodgers this year. Is Mason Rudolph the best backup in the NFL? We run down some of the other backup QBs. Are people getting ahead of themselves with Joey Porter Jr? We know what Rudolph is at this point. Bob likes what he saw from Arthur Smith. A  caller suggests trading Mason to give Howard valuable reps. 

The Steelers backup QBs looked good on Saturday. Will Mason Rudolph become the fan's choice once again? Can Skylar Thompson make the team? Joe references Brady's first year in Tampa has a guideline for Rodgers this year. Is Mason Rudolph the best backup in the NFL? We run down some of the other backup QBs. Are people getting ahead of themselves with Joey Porter Jr? We know what Rudolph is at this point. Bob likes what he saw from Arthur Smith. A caller suggests trading Mason to give Howard valuable reps. Tomlin indicated maybe no Rodgers this preseason. Justin Fields looked good in his preseason game. A caller thinks the Steelers are a legit contender and thinks it's up to Rodgers on if he plays in the preseason. Another caller is optimistic about the corners helping the entire defense. Kaleb Johnson wasn't very impressive. Joe gives his take on Cam Heyward holding in and provides examples of the Steelers treating him well over the years. Fans seem to be against him. The lack of postseason success makes it harder to justify big contracts for Heyward and Watt. Cam could've put this out on his podcast but didn't. This news snuck up on everyone. The Steelers have become pushovers. They didn't acquiesce to Bell less than a decade ago. We still don't know what exactly Cam is asking for. Cam's reputation is taking a hit right now, fairly or unfairly. Would fans be happy if he was traded today? Starkey gets excited about a golf course recommendation. Tomlin didn't get any questions because nobody was there seemingly. A caller says Cam should've signed a 1-year deal only. More callers chime in on Cam, with one saying he deserves to seek what he's worth. Bob seems less bothered by Cam than Joe and most fans. Joe heard from Ron yesterday. Pomp did a call in honor of Donny Football. Donny was very excited. Steelers tidbits: why can't you dunk on the goalposts, Broderick Jones looked good, the hawk eye measurement has arrived. Who were some great singers and actors? Ben Cherington had another baffling quote, this time about Bubba Chandler. Could the Pirates bring back Tommy Pham? Why are we still talking about Triolo and Suwinski? Mullys drops in with a special gift to Joe from Oakmont. Joe runs down the performance of several QBs who the Steelers could've taken - Milton, Dart, Sanders, Milroe, Fields, Joe had a crazy sneeze.

The Steelers backup QBs looked good on Saturday. Will Mason Rudolph become the fan's choice once again? Can Skylar Thompson make the team? Joe references Brady's first year in Tampa has a guideline for Rodgers this year. Is Mason Rudolph the best backup in the NFL? We run down some of the other backup QBs. Are people getting ahead of themselves with Joey Porter Jr? We know what Rudolph is at this point. Bob likes what he saw from Arthur Smith. A  caller suggests trading Mason to give Howard valuable reps. Tomlin indicated maybe no Rodgers this preseason. Justin Fields looked good in his preseason game. A caller thinks the Steelers are a legit contender and thinks it's up to Rodgers on if he plays in the preseason. Another caller is optimistic about the corners helping the entire defense. Kaleb Johnson wasn't very impressive. 

In this clip from the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey react to coach Mike Tomlin's long list of 15 Steelers veterans who are being held out of the NFL preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Is it smart to rest names like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Joey Porter Jr.? Or would it be nice to see some of these players as both the offense and defense look to integrate numerous additions? They also ponder what they'd like to see from the guys who will play. How important is it that Broderick Jones show some life at left tackle, as he looks to prove that he's not the weak link in a unit that includes Mason McCormick, Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu? Can Roman Wilson take advantage of reps as the possible No. 1 receiver in this game? And what can we expect from rookies including Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Jack Sawyer and Kaleb Johnson?

In this clip from the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey wonder whether the Steelers defense can live up to the hype that's grown for the unit throughout training camp. Has the unit made enough changes to be elite? From adding veterans like Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey to drafting rookies including Derrick Harmon, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black? Can Payton Wilson live up to lofty expectations some have built for him? How immediately can Harmon and Black be difference makers? And what kind of pressure is on Joey Porter Jr. to excel after a relative sophomore slump in 2024? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to a report that DL Cam Heyward is holding in at Steelers training camp in pursuit of a restructured contract. Does the defensive captain deserve a new deal after signing an extension just a year ago? Especially at his advanced age for his position of 36? Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be devoting even more resources to their defense, which also includes highly paid stars like Jalen Ramsey and T.J. Watt? And how should other deals signed around the NFL factor into these conversations? Paul weighs in on those questions, plus Tomlin's list of players that will be held out of the preseason opener Saturday against the Jaguars. Should younger names like Joey Porter Jr. and Nick Herbig be available? What about newer veterans like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith? And when should we see those players this preseason, if at all?

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to analyze the team's increasing volume of injuries during Steelers training camp. How much will Will Howard's hand injury -- which reportedly will keep him out at least three weeks -- stymie his progress in challenging Mason Rudolph for the No. 2 QB job? How much should fans worry about Calvin Austin III, who's missed several practices as he looks to prove he can be a capable WR2 behind DK Metcalf? And have the absences of names like Jonnu Smith, Joey Porter Jr., Isaac Seumalo and others simply been the normal wear and tear of camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks receivers. Is Roman Wilson starting to turn a corner in his chemistry with QB Aaron Rodgers after a highlight-reel catch Tuesday? Is Scotty Miller still in the mix to make the roster despite failing to see the field much with Justin Fields and Russell Wilson in 2024? Could the Steelers still make a move for a veteran like Amari Cooper? Or are they confident in their depth and other veterans like Robert Woods and Ben Skowronek.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He gives his thoughts on whether Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have cultivated enough depth this offseason. Yes, they made aggressive moves for big veteran names like Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and DK Metcalf to surround existing stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Joey Porter Jr. But is the next layer of talent enough to compete with the best in the NFL? Later, he weighs in on the Pirates' latest home win against the San Francisco Giants and the momentum they've built the past couple of weeks despite an MLB trade deadline that disappointed many fans.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss injury updates with Joey Porter Jr. returning to practice, Alex Highsmith and Calvin Austin III still out, Will Howard and Jonnu Smith leaving early and more. We also discuss the opportunity in front of Roman Wilson and how it's his time to shine, coming off his best practice. Speaking of, will Broderick Jones continue to stack good practices? Is there a disaster situation that would cause them to pivot from their QB plan during the 2026 draft? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick Herbig, Joey Porter Jr, Mark Robinson, Troy Fautanu listed by Nick Farabaugh as stars of today's practice. Poni mentions that the defense should beat the offense in camp, as it is the highest paid unit in the NFL. Aaron Rodgers said that he's still having fun playing football, and that he likes Latrobe. Mullsy says that Aaron Rodgers has earned a reputation as being “artificial” behind the scenes. Rodgers said that in Green Bay and New York, they didn't tackle in practice. Poni says that you can see how different Rodgers is from Russell Wilson simply through his interview answers. All Access with Aditi Kinkhabwala. Aditi says that the teams that really want to compete always embrace physicality in camp. Mullsy says Rodgers sounds more authentic when talking about football than Russell Wilson. Aditi says that the defense always prospers in team drills early in camp. She says that this is often because the offense is always trying different stuff early in camp. Dom Debrief. The Steelers give out a packet with the name and face of team media personalities. Do the guys think that they're on the packet? Poni says that one of the guys should ask Pat Freiermuth to take a picture of this packet and send it to them. Mullsy gives Starkey props as a great interviewer. Dom calls himself the funniest guy at the station.

Nick Herbig, Joey Porter Jr, Mark Robinson, Troy Fautanu listed by Nick Farabaugh as stars of today's practice. Poni mentions that the defense should beat the offense in camp, as it is the highest paid unit in the NFL. Aaron Rodgers said that he's still having fun playing football, and that he likes Latrobe. Mullsy says that Aaron Rodgers has earned a reputation as being “artificial” behind the scenes. Rodgers said that in Green Bay and New York, they didn't tackle in practice. Poni says that you can see how different Rodgers is from Russell Wilson simply through his interview answers.

Is it too soon to worry about OC Arthur Smith's offense after some inconsistency show in practice? Or is there valid reason for concern that QB Aaron Rodgers can get the most out of playmakers including Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III? What should we make of the signing of Chuck Clark, as he joins the secondary alongside names like Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr. and Jalen Ramsey? And what should we watch for as padded practices begin Tuesday? Paul tackles those questions, plus the latest Pirates chatter as the MLB trade deadline looms later in the week.

Day Two of Pittsburgh Steelers training camp is complete, and Jarrett Bailey gives his thoughts on what he saw in Latrobe, including: -Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf improving their chemistry from Day One -Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr continue to dominate -Kaleb Johnson is going to be a star -Will Howard takes over as QB3

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 Pittsburgh defensive backfield, which looks like it will be a matchup nightmare for opponents in 2025. With Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay, and Joey Porter Jr. the Steelers have three top-tier cornerbacks, and two of them in Slay and Ramsey can move all around the formation to make figuring out what the Steelers are tryin g to do nearly impossibly for opposing offenses. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap the first practice of Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They react to QB Aaron Rodgers having his first pass to DK Metcalf intercepted by new teammate Patrick Queen; Jalen Ramsey talking over slot corner duties with Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr. playing outside; Juan Thornhill getting extensive looks in the absence of Minkah Fitzpatrick at safety; Jonnu Smith doing limited work in his first appearance in a Steelers uniform. They also give an update on Isaac Seumalo's injury and first-round pick Derrick Harmon's first camp practice.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss what came out of the team's first day on the field at Saint Vincent College. Jalen Ramsey (as advertised) showed off his versatility and played all over the field. TJ Watt took Derrick Harmon under his wing. Roman Wilson played outside in 11 personnel. Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf weren't on the same page and showed they have aways to go. Joey Porter Jr. and Kaleb Johnson might have had the two best days of anybody out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 23, 2025 - Season 16, Episode 1 of The Terrible Podcast is now in the can. In this Wednesday evening show, Alex Kozora and I get right to discussing the Pittsburgh Steelers reporting to Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA earlier in the day for the start of their 2025 training camp. We first discuss the team placing G Isaac Seumalo on the Active/NFI list at the start of training camp with a soft tissue injury. We talk about how he will miss the start of training camp and who is likely to fill in for him at left guard until he is healthy. We talk a little bit about how the Steelers are really a healthy team overall heading into training camp this year. Steelers HC Mike Tomlin talked to the media Wednesday afternoon, so we go over a few key things that he had to say at the start of camp. We focus a lot on what Tomlin had to see about the expected cornerback usage in 2025 when it comes to the top three in that position group, Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey, and Darius Slay. Steelers GM Omar Khan also had a press conference on Wednesday, so Alex and I parse the main talking points to come out of his media session. There's a lot to recap from Khan when it comes to possible additions moving forward and future contract extensions this summer. We discuss how active Khan has been this offseason with him also keeping a close eye on the 2026 NFL Draft. We go over what he had to say about the decision to trade away S Minkah Fitzpatrick a few weeks ago as well. Fresh off of signing his new contract last week, Steelers OLB T.J. Watt also had a formal press conference on Wednesday. Alex and I make sure to parse the several key things that he had to say during his media session. Later in this show, Alex and I attempt to quickly recap a few notable things that a few other various Steelers players had to say on reporting day. With the Steelers set to have their first official training camp practice of 2025 on Thursday, Alex and I look ahead to things we are looking forward to learning right out of the chute this year. This 76-minute episode also discusses several other minor topics not noted in the recap and we make sure to answer a few listener questions at the very end. steelersdepot.com 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, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko break down the biggest positional battles ahead of training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. How does the secondary trio of Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. get used at CB/S now that Minkah Fitzpatrick is no longer in Pittsburgh? Are the LB/DL positions now primed to stop the run with the addition of rookie Derrick Harmon and T.J. Watt's new contract in tow? The guys also analyze camp battles between Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson at RB, as well as who can emerge as Aaron Rodgers' true WR2 between players like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III. Who takes the TE1 job between Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, or will it be another Arthur Smith-run committee? For more sports, visit post-gazette.com.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss what came out of the team's move-in day ahead of the start of training camp. Isaac Seumalo will not participate early on due to a soft-tissue injury. Troy Fautanu however, will be a full participant when camp opens up after last year's knee injury. Where will Jalen Ramsey slot in? He and Mike Tomlin were both coy about the roles but noted that he, Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. will all be on the field nearly all the time. What did TJ Watt have to say about signing his massive extension? Will Omar Khan make any other outside additions? He touched on that and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes colleague Ray Fittipaldo for a position-by-position preview of training camp, which begins Wednesday at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. -How will things shape up at QB behind Aaron Rodgers, with Will Howard challenging Mason Rudolph for the backup role? -Is Jaylen Warren prepared to assume starter duties in the backfield, with Kaleb Johnson, Kenneth Gainwell and Trey Sermon also jockeying for time? -How solid will the receiving corps look behind DK Metcalf? Is Calvin Austin III primed for a breakout season? And how will Roman Wilson bounce back from missing 2024 because of injury? -What progress has the offensive line made, with young players like Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick returning with experience? -How will Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black handle their first training camp alongside names like Keeanu Benton and Cam Heyward? And can names like DeMarvin Leal hold onto their roster spots? -And what can we expect from the new-look secondary, with veterans Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. joining Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott?

The Steelers defense was on the field for the final 10 minutes of the game against the Ravens and were pushed around. The linebackers are the best unit and were excited to see the steps that Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer take. Joey Porter Jr. needs to take a step up.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to draft 2025 breakout candidates ahead of training camp next week at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Is Payton Wilson the most obvious pick, given the prominent role he's expected to have? Can names like Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Joey Porter Jr. and Jaylen Warren take the next step in their careers to establish themselves among the best at their position in the NFL? Are Juan Thornhill, Kaleb Johnson, Cory Trice Jr. and Jack Sawyer dark horse candidates to make impacts? And where do receivers Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson fit into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the Steelers' new 4-year contract with linebacker T.J. Watt, which averages significantly less than the reported $40 million per year he was seeking. Did GM Omar Khan make a good deal, solidifying his team's future after acquisitions of big name veterans this offseason, including DK Metcalf, Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith? Or did he hamstring the future for a core that includes names like Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton, Joey Porter Jr., Zach Frazier and Broderick Jones? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo later in the show to break down the Watt contract news and what it means for training camp next week at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe.

Steve Palazzolo from the 33rd Team joined the show. Steve said the trade that landed them Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith made them better, even if Minkah Fitzpatrick was part of that cost. Steve is confident that Ramsey is still a good football player and has better positional value than Fitzpatrick. Steve would still play Ramsey at outside corner, but he has the ability to move around with Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay also on the defense. Steve brought up how Ramsey played safety, nickel corner and outside corner during his time at Florida State. Steve explained how Smith can work best in the Steelers offense. How many teams would be in the running for TJ Watt if he really is made available? Steve still thinks Myles Garrett is a better player than Watt and he came with an explanation.

BREAKING: The Penguins have made a minor trade, acquiring Matt Dumba from the Dallas Stars. Will the Pens make a big trade at some point to dump one of their bad contracts? The discussion turned to baseball and we centered it around Andrew McCutchen, who is apparently ‘untouchable' at the trade deadline. Cutch has never played in a championship series. Should the Pirates give him that chance? The feeling is surely mutual, but we thought it was bizarre that McCutchen has never gotten a chance to play for the whole thing. Steve Palazzolo from the 33rd Team joined the show. Steve said the trade that landed them Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith made them better, even if Minkah Fitzpatrick was part of that cost. Steve is confident that Ramsey is still a good football player and has better positional value than Fitzpatrick. Steve would still play Ramsey at outside corner, but he has the ability to move around with Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay also on the defense. Steve brought up how Ramsey played safety, nickel corner and outside corner during his time at Florida State. Steve explained how Smith can work best in the Steelers offense. How many teams would be in the running for TJ Watt if he really is made available? Steve still thinks Myles Garrett is a better player than Watt and he came with an explanation. Donny Football Debrief – A ranking of the Top 25 NFL teams of the 21st century from Yahoo Sports is just terrible

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko ponder the coaching job in front of Mike Tomlin amid the acquisition of big personalities including Jalen Ramsey, Aaron Rodgers, Jonnu Smith, DK Metcalf and Darius Slay Jr. this offseason. How will Ramsey fit into the secondary schematically following the departure of Minkah Fitzpatrick? Will he play outside corner? Will he leave those duties mostly to Slay and Joey Porter Jr. and seize the slot role? Or could we see him slide in at safety next to DeShon Elliot and Juan Thornhill? Our duo tackles those questions, plus some locker room dynamics. Is Mike Tomlin ready to manage the high volume of star-caliber players he has coming in? And how will the new faces impact the leadership structure of the team? Will Rodgers, Metcalf, Slay, etc. defer to long-time Steelers like T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward? Or will they be vocal contributors in their own right?

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes long-time Miami-area radio host and podcaster Orlando Alzugaray to react to the blockbuster deal between Pittsburgh and the Miami Dolphins, in which they exchanged CB Jalen Ramsey, TE Jonnu Smith and S Minkah Fitzpatrick. Was the deal mutually beneficial? Or just Miami's way of unloading its problems? Could a change of scenery help Ramsey as he joins a secondary that already includes Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and DeShon Elliott? And will Arthur Smith be able to further unlock his new tight end's potential? Especially given the lack of proven receiver options beyond DK Metcalf that includes Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III? 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. He gives his thoughts on whether Steelers GM Omar Khan has made his team too old with moves for veterans including DK Metcalf, Aaron Rodgers, Darius Slay Jr., Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith. Can this team really compete with the NFL's best by making a roster that already including Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt older? Or could it be a fatal flaw for coach Mike Tomlin and Co.? And are some people underestimating the contributions young players like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Joey Porter Jr. could make? Paul tackles those questions and more.

Minkah Fitzpatrick has been the Steelers top safety ever since he joined the team in 2019. Jalen Ramsey has been an All-Pro caliber starting cornerback so we could see a lot of three-corner packages with Joey Porter Jr and Darius SlaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pittsburgh Steelers just turned the NFL upside down by robbing the Miami Dolphins blind in a blockbuster trade. Jalen Ramsey joins a stacked Steelers secondary that now looks downright illegal alongside Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay. Jonnu Smith links back up with Arthur Smith to give Aaron Rodgers another weapon in the two-TE heavy system—meanwhile, Minkah Fitzpatrick's fall-off finally caught up to him. The Dolphins lost their best corner and most underrated offensive mismatch… for a safety who hasn't scared anyone in two seasons. JT has a very strong take on who just got exposed in this trade—don't miss it.

On a special LIVE Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to news that GM Omar Khan has made a series of blockbuster trade, bringing former All-Pro CB Jalen Ramsey and TE Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh while sending former All-Pro S Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins. Is this secondary better with Ramsey instead of Fitzpatrick next to names like Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and Darius Slay Jr.? And what does Smith offer OC Arthur Smith at tight end that Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington don't already? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter welcomes podcaster Dave Dameshek to get his assessment of the team ahead of training camp next month at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They begin by pondering which young players could be x-factors in 2025, with a specific focus on the 2023 NFL draft class that included Joey Porter Jr., Broderick Jones, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Cory Trice Jr. Will those guys be the difference makers if coach Mike Tomlin and Co. are going to have a good season? Or, if they struggle, could they drag the whole team down regardless of what new faces like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf and others bring to the table? Later, the guys look to Steelers history for lessons in leadership that could help the current squad. And Dave plays a game of "What If?" Imagining what might have happened had Ben Roethlisberger retired after his 2019 arm injury, and whether names like Jordan Love, Justin Herbert or Jalen Hurts could be the team's franchise quarterback right now.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder and Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Adam Bittner react to rumors tying the Steelers to Miami Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin move aggressively to make a move to add a former All-Pro alongside names like Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Cory Trice Jr.? Or is sitting tight the right move ahead of training camp and the preseason, when other names might become available across the league? The guys also give their thoughts on Jaire Alexander signing with the Baltimore Ravens. Should Khan be trying to keep up with the AFC North rival in a roster arms race? Or is keeping NFL draft capital with an eye toward the loaded QB class that could include names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and Cade Klubnik the more prudent course? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, hosts Christopher Carter and Brian Batko evaluate the performance of rookies during OTAs and minicamps. Was Derrick Harmon the clear winner after claiming a starting spot early? Something names like Broderick Jones and Joey Porter Jr. have not been able to do early on? Why was RB Kaleb Johnson also worthy of praise? And what was noticeable about other NFL draft picks including Will Howard, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black? Later, the guys ponder which departed Steelers could have the best seasons elsewhere. Will QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields shine with the New York Giants and Jets, respectively? How will Najee Harris look with the Los Angeles Chargers? And will George Pickens be a difference maker for the Dallas Cowboys? Then in the third segment, Brian and Chris explain why Patrick Queen's brutal self-evaluation process.

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 whether the Steelers should pursue cornerback Jalen Ramsey as a trade option. The Miami Dolphins are trading Ramsey, the 30-year-old, seven-time Pro Bowler, in what is apparently a mutual decision. The Steelers are already set at outside corberback with Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. in the fold. They could use Ramsey as an option in the slot, where he would certainly be an upgrade over Beanie Bishop. But he is due $21.1 million over the rest of the 2025 season -- a hefty sum for any cornerback, let alone one playing in the slot -- and it's unlikely that a move to a more phyiscally demanding position at 30 years old would be the thing that would please the disgruntled Dolphins corner. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder and Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko evaluate the team's secondary following the DeShon Elliott contract extension agreed to earlier this week. How does Elliott solidify the secondary in the long-term next to Minkah Fitzpatrick at safety? What does Joey Porter have to prove at CB alongside new teammate Darius Slay Jr. in 2025? Will Beanie Bishop earning the starting spot at slot corner? Or will names like Cory Trice Jr. have something to say about that within coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders whether Broderick Jones is an asset of liability at LT next fellow young players including Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick as they look to protect an increasingly immobile Aaron Rodgers at QB.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to DeShon Elliott signing a three-year contract extension with the Steelers. Was keeping Elliott long-term the right move for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin? Can Elliott and Fitzpatrick be elite playmakers in a secondary that also includes Joey Porter Jr. and has added names like Darius Slay Jr., Juan Thornhill and Brandin Echols this offseason? And how much can an improved defensive line that includes Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton and Yahya Black help guys like Elliott with playmaking on the back end? Paul offers thoughts on those questions; the Pirate starting a series with the Detroit Tigers; and the NBA and Stanley Cup finals nearing stellar finishes.

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

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo recap the team's minicamp at its South Side facility this week. What did we ultimately learn about Aaron Rodgers upon his arrival in Pittsburgh? What should we make of him not practicing with the team? What kind of impact is DK Metcalf making on the passing game? And how will both players shape Arthur Smith's offense in the year ahead? Our duo tackles those questions, then give their thoughts on T.J. Watt's absence, the looming risk of a training camp holdout and the 2023 NFL draft class -- led by Joey Porter Jr., Broderick Jones, Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig -- starting to step into leadership roles for the team.

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.