Podcasts about post gazette

In his weekly Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: What are the chances Konnor Griffin makes the team out of spring training in 2026? Does general manager Ben Cherington have a legitimate chance to keep his job? After his hot stretch at the plate lately, could Jared Triolo solidify his spot as the starting shortstop or third baseman for next season? What Pirate has impressed Noah the most this season, and who do the Pirates need to cut ties with? And who could the Pirates acquire via free agency or trade to shore up the corner-outfield spots? Noah answers those questions and more.

In this clip from the Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to analyze the Steelers' depth at safety after roster cut down day. Do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have enough depth at the position, with only DeShon Elliott, Juan Thornhill and Chuck Clark manning it moving forward? Is the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade for Jalen Ramsey a signal they they believe they can find useful players at safety even in the event of injury? How does Ramsey figure into the safety situation, if at all? And how should we feel about the overall secondary that also includes names like Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette high school sports insider Matt Press interviews Montour girls soccer standout Irelynn Hobbs, the Post-Gazette's WPIAL athlete of the week, about an array of topics. How does Irelynn prepare for a big game? What does she remember about scoring a playoff winner against Franklin Regional last season? What's it like playing for her father, Alex Hobbs? What has she learned from her older sister, Kira? And where does she see her sport growing from here in the city following the Pittsburgh Riveters' debut season?

Post-Gazette high school sports insider Keith Barnes interviews Bethel Park football standout David Dennison, who was named the PG's WPIAL and City League athlete of the week after piling up 238 yards and four touchdowns in a major Week 0 victory against Steel Valley. David explains how his big night unfolded and his expectations this season as his team competes with the likes of Peters Township for supremacy in WPIAL Class 5A.

In this clip from the Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to react to the team's roster decisions at the wide receiver position. Have GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin closed the door on a move for an outside WR2? With names like Amari Cooper and Marquez Valdes-Scantling off the market and Gabe Davis still not getting an offer despite multiple visits to the team? Are Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III and others enough behind DK Metcalf? Especially in the event of injury? How much can OC Arthur Smith's offense really rely on tight ends like Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington in the passing game? And can 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers effectively distribute the ball to all of those targets? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Live around 5:45 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Steelers practice squad, announced Wednesday, as well as moves to put QB Will Howard and Donte Kent on injured reserve. Did coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan make the right moves in keeping names like Beanie Bishop, Sebastian Castro, James Pierre, DeMarvin Leal and Max Hurleman? Or should they have looked at more external options amid roster cuts around the NFL? And what will the impact of the IR decision be on Howard's development? Will he struggle to ever surpass Skylar Thompson on the depth chart behind Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph if he can't get practice reps while on IR, per NFL rules? Or would that be a good place for him to learn the position at the NFL level?

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette insider Brian Batko welcomes KDKA-TV sports reporter Rich Walsh to react to the Steelers' final roster cuts down to their 53-man roster for NFL Week 1. Is it bad news for Mason Rudolph that Skylar Thompson earned the No. 3 job over Will Howard? Could he challenge Rudolph for the No. 2 role behind Aaron Rodgers? Was the release of RB Trey Sermon a good sign for rookie Kaleb Johnson as he looks to find his way in a backfield with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And who were the biggest surprise cuts from coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan? Does the list include Robert Woods, Chuck Clark or James Pierre? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

In this clip from the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the Steelers' situation at offensive tackle with Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones. Did either or both show enough in training camp and the preseason to prove that they can be building blocks for the young offensive line, which also includes names like Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? And will they be able to adequately protect Aaron Rodgers, who increasingly lacks mobility at QB? Later, they ponder whether the running game or high number of new faces in the secondary is a bigger concern. With Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr, Juan Thornhill and others all trying to find their place. And they explain how they feel the Cam Heyward contract dispute may play out now that he's returned to practicing with the team.

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey is joined by insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's Monday round of roster cuts. What should we make of Corliss Waitman winning the punting job over Cameron Johnston? And will Mark Robinson be miss in the inside linebacker group behind names like Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson and Cole Holcomb? The guys also ponder the futures of players still potentially in some degree of roster trouble. Is Will Howard destined for IR this point after he and Skylar Thompson made it through this round of cuts? And what's going to happen with seventh-round pick Donte Kent? Or Cory Trice Jr. behind Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr. at corner?

Live around 5 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to a couple of former Steelers getting moved by the Cleveland Browns. What's next for QB Kenny Pickett after he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders? Are his dreams of starting in the NFL again doomed after losing the competition with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders with the Cleveland Browns? Or can he find his way in a Raiders QB room that includes Geno Smith and Aidan O'Connell? And what's next for Diontae Johnson after he was cut by the Browns? Could his NFL career be over after he was traded by the Steelers last offseason and has now failed to find a home with four teams since? Paul tackles those questions and more.

On their weekly Vastity Xtra podcast, Post-Gazette high school sports insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White discuss the hottest topics around the WPIAL and City League. -Have Pittsburgh-area teams fallen behind their Eastern Pa. peers following Central Catholic's blowout loss this weekend against La Salle College? -Why were McKeesport's Kemon Spell and Peters Township's Nolan DiLucia among our duo's shining stars of the week? -How are stars including Central Catholic's Ashton Blatt and Pine-Richland's Jay Timmons navigating the new world of revenue sharing and NIL in high school sports? -Why are Mohawk-Laurel, Moon-Montour, Mars-Bethel Park, New Castle-Hopewell, Pine-Richland-Central Catholic and Peters Township-McKeesport the big games to watch this coming weekend? -And what are former WPIAL stars Mike Logan and William "TuTu" Ferguson up to these days? The guys chat about those topics, plus a sighting of former Steelers linebacker James Harrison at a game over the weekend.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise weighs in on the hottest topics in Pittsburgh sports. Specifically, he gives his thoughts on a suggestion by ESPN's Bill Barnwell that the Steelers could trade for Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson after he lost a competition with Daniel Jones to start. Should GM Omar Khan really consider dealing for the 23-year-old, who's had mixed results so far, as a potential successor to Aaron Rodgers? Are internal options like Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and Will Howard preferable? Or should Khan focus on the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh, that figures to include talented rookie options like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, Cade Klubnik and Garrett Nussmeier?

In his weekly Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: Why is Bubba Chandler, whom the Pirates will call up this weekend, starting in a long-relief role out of the bullpen rather than as a starting pitcher? Did the team move pitcher Andrew Heaney to the bullpen so he wouldn't reach his contract's innings bonus? Would the Pirates really be better if owner Bob Nutting had hired now-Milwaukee Brewers general manager Matt Arnold instead of Ben Cherington? Could Andrew McCutchen see some action at first base? And should the Pirates approach Konnor Griffin with a long-term deal offer before he gets too expensive? Noah answers those questions and more.

In this clip from the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to ponder the starters he's most interested to see in the NFL preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers. How much of Jonnu Smith will we see? And where will he line up in comparison to his tight end teammates including Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? How will coach Mike Tomlin deploy veteran DBs Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr.? And how will those guys communicate after the breakdowns in the secondary at the end of last season? How will RB Jaylen Warren look running behind offensive linemen Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier? And how will DC Teryl Austin split the snaps among LBs Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson and Cole Holcomb? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

In this clip from the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to analyze the leadership and locker room presence Aaron Rodgers is bringing to the Steelers. What do Skylar Thompson's glowing remarks about Rodgers tell us about how his new teammates are receiving him? To what degree is he defying the "circus" label that accompanied him from the New York Jets? Has he humbled himself because of that experience? Does he see value in just being one of the guys in coach Mike Tomlin's locker room alongside other veterans like T.J. Watt, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward and Jalen Ramsey? And how does his leadership style compare to that of Russell Wilson last year? Our guys tackles those questions and more.

Dan talked to the Post-Gazette about what it was like calling Saturday and Sunday's Pirates games at Wrigley Field.Bubba Chandler is being called up Friday to pitch out of the 'pen. On the surface, Dan is surprised why Chandler will pitch in a bulk role. Dan thinks workload management could be a driving factor. Chandler also isn't entering the majors off a ton of success. Dan is shocked Chandler is here.

Post-Gazette insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap Tuesday's Steelers practice at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on the South Side. What should we make of All-Pro defensive lineman and team captain Cam Heyward returning to practice amid news of a contract dispute? What went into coach Mike Tomlin's decision to NOT play Heyward, T.J. Watt, DK Metcalf and Aaron Rodgers in the final preseason game Thursday against the Carolina Panthers? Will Rodgers struggle to adjust when the regular season comes because he hasn't thrown in a game with his group of wide receivers including Metcalf, Roman Wilson and the injured Calvin Austin III? Besides that group of four, Tomlin said all other players are in consideration to play. Should he give his new-look secondary some run together and give new faces like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. time to mesh with Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

In this clip from the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the defense's depth at linebacker and ongoing communication issues. How much has the team's depth at linebacker grown in the offseason? How much will projected starters Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson play? And how often might they be rested in favor of reserves like Cole Holcomb, who's been shining in Steelers training camp and the NFL preseason? And where will rookie Jack Sawyer find his niche in the outside linebacker group behind names like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig? The guys tackle those questions, then explain whether they're concerned about communication issues that plagued the defense down the stretch. Especially because veterans like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. have not gotten the chance to mesh with new teammates like DeShon Elliott, Joey Porter Jr. and Juan Thornhill much in the preseason.

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the team's situation at wide receiver and in the running game. Should fans be alarmed about Calvin Austin III's injury after he suggested there is a chance he may miss NFL Week 1 against the New York Jets? Would Gabe Davis be an adequate replacement at WR2 behind DK Metcalf, following his latest visit with the team for a physical? And where does Roman Wilson belong in the pecking order after his strong preseason? Our duo tackles those questions, then takes stock of the way Arthur Smith's offense has run the ball thus far. Did Kaleb Johnson show improvement against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers? Do young offensive linemen Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier need to show they can perform when they count before fans can really count on the unit? And how much of a difference with Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith make for the blocking schemes when they're in the lineup more regularly?

Post-Gazette high school sports insiders Mike White and Keith Barnes launch their new weekly podcast talking all things WPIAL and City League football. In the first segment, they ponder player of the year candidates with Fort Cherry's Matt Sieg, Pine-Richland's Jay Timmons and McKeesport's Kemon Spell topping the list; analyze which programs have the best chance at PIAA championships; and debate the updated transfer rules and what that mean for players including Anthony Smith of Southmoreland and Khalil Taylor of Seton LaSalle. Later, the guys preview the top six games of Week 0, including Central Catholic-La Salle College; Imani Christian-Clairton and Woodland Hills-North Allegheny. Then they check in on what former high school standouts Gene Matsook of Rochester and Ray Reitz of Jeannette are up to in their "Where Are They Now?" segment.

Live at 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the Steelers running game's performance in the first two preseason games against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What should we make of Kaleb Johnson's mixed results over the past couple of weeks as he looks to assert himself in the backfield next to names like Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren? Are offensive linemen including Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu showing enough progress in Arthur Smith's offense for the running game to work consistently? And how might Aaron Rodgers under center change things compared to backups Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson? Paul tackles those questions and also weighs in on the Pirates' weekend series loss against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.

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.

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 boosted their stock the most during the NFL preseason. Does Roman Wilson looked poised for regular playing time alongside DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III at wide receiver? Will Scotty Miller play an unexpectedly important role as he quickly becomes a favorite target for QB Aaron Rodgers? What will Yahya Black's role be on the defensive line? Will his snap counts be more in line with projected starters like Keeanu Benton, Cam Heyward and Derrick Harmon? Or other presumed depth options like Isaiahh Loudermilk? And has Broderick Jones shown that he's ready for the rigors at left tackle alongside young teammates like Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to react to the Pirates' disastrous series sweep at the hands of the Brewers in Milwaukee. Why is this team still struggling so much, even after GM Ben Cherington decided to keep productive veterans like Tommy Pham and Isiah Kiner-Falefa on expiring contracts? How did manager Don Kelly's club fall so far behind its small-market peer, led by GM Matt Arnold? Can Bob Nutting or anyone else really complain about MLB economics when the Brewers are thriving like they are? And how much longer can Cherington hold onto his job? Our duo tackles those topics, plus some on-field questions. Is there any hope left for Jack Suwinski, who's struggled immensely since his most recent promotion from the minor leagues? Will Oneil Cruz's injured list stint snap him out of his post-All-Star break funk? And how bad could this offense be in 2026 if both Tommy Pham and Andrew McCutchen choose not to return?

In this clip from the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to react to the team's joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Acrisure Stadium. Were Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt and the defense humbled a bit by Buccaneers WR Mike Evans and QB Baker Mayfield, who will now reportedly sit out the teams' preseason game Saturday despite initially planning to play? How long will it take Ramsey to reach his potential within coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Why are communication issues -- cited by DB Brandin Echols -- still showing up after proving costly down the stretch last season? Does DC Teryl Austin need to prove he can fix them soon? And how much would this unit miss Cam Heyward if he holds out because of his contract dispute with GM Omar Khan? Do Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black give the defensive line enough depth the weather the storm? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

In this clip from the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to analyze the Steelers' situation at receiver. Is Calvin Austin III's role in trouble, with Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo reporting that the receiver is set to miss the rest of te NFL preseason win an injury? Could GM Omar Khan still sign a veteran like Odell Beckham Jr., Amari Cooper or Gabe Davis? And where do Scotty Miller, Roman Wilson and Jonnu Smith fit into the conversation? 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.

In his weekly Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: Should we be concerned about Bryan Reynolds long term after a down season? How will Don Kelly manage his starters' and bullpen's workloads differently than Derek Shelton did? Why does Alexander Canario still have a roster spot? What is the most important stat to consider for a new pitcher or position player? Is there any way to legitimately pressure Bob Nutting into selling the team? And who are some players GM Ben Cherington could target to bolster the infield through free agency or a trade acquisition? Noah answers those questions and more.

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.

In this clip from the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christoper Carter to ponder winners from Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Why was Payton Wilson able to meet sky-high expectations at middle linebacker? How has Darnell Washington asserted himself in the passing game alongside names like Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith? Has Yahya Black proven that he's the top reserve offensive lineman behind Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon? Is Scotty Miller now a lock to make the team after demonstrating chemistry with Aaron Rodgers? How much does Jalen Ramsey appear poised to transform this defense after the late offseason trade that brought him to Pittsburgh in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick? And has Broderick Jones successfully shaken off a rough first week to show he can be a strength for the offensive line? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

In this clip from the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter to ponder the losers at Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Could Robert Woods miss the team at receiver, having possibly been surpassed on the depth chart by names like Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller? Or does he still have a chance to find chemistry with QB Aaron Rodgers? Where does Isaiahh Loudermilk fit in the pecking order on the defensive line after rookies Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black had strong outings? Is Cory Trice Jr. in danger of losing a roster spot amid yet another injury? And with competitors like Beanie Bishop and James Pierre putting solid tape together? And could Skylar Thompson be a threat to Will Howard as the No. 3 QB behind Rodgers and Mason Rudolph? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

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.

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette sports columnist welcomes insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to Cam Heyward's comments about his contract dispute with the Steelers. Did Heyward have valid critiques of dealing with GM Omar Khan's front office, a year after signing a contract extension? Why don't his comments seem to have helped his favorability among fans? And will he find a resolution that prevents him from missing regular season games? Later, the guys analyze the preseason victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars and what it tells us about the offense. Specifically, they discuss how valuable Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu can be if they're both healthy and playing well at tackle this season; the encouraging contributions of receivers including Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller; and the importance of quick throws from QBs Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and, eventually, Aaron Rodgers. They also give their thoughts on the overall roster depth and small offseason improvements that may have been overshadowed by big moves for Rodgers, Jonnu Smith, DK Metcalf and Jalen Ramsey.

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.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to talk about Paul Skenes' future in Pittsburgh. Is a contract extension with the National League Cy Young candidate a legit possibility? Or does he have little incentive to sign unless GM Ben Cherington can prove an ability to put a winning roster around him? And would owner Bob Nutting even approve such an expenditure if Skenes was interested? Our duo tackles those topics and more including Ke'Bryan Hayes' return to Pittsburgh with the Cincinnati Reds; they delayed callups of top pitching prospects Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco amid the continued presence of Andrew Heaney on the roster; and Dennis Santana's early struggles in the closer role after inheriting it from the departed David Bednar.

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.

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?

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?

In his weekly Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: Why haven't top prospects Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco been called up already, and will they be soon? Is the front office not as high on Billy Cook and Nick Yorke as we may have thought? Is there anything for fans to buy into heading into next season? Are the Pirates discussing a contract extension with Paul Skenes? And is the 2026 opening day third baseman in the organization already? Or will it an outside acquisition? Noah answers those questions and more.

Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko recap practice at Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They detail notable veterans who will miss the NFL preseason opener Saturday against the Jacksonville Jaguars, including T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf and others, according to coach Mike Tomlin. They also note the progress of the offense in practice, particularly in attacking the middle of the field with QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Scotty Miller. Will Rodgers have more success there than predecessors Russell Wilson and Justin Fields did in OC Arthur Smith's offense? And could Miller have a bigger role than expected alongside names like Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Then later, the guys explain why Yahya Black has continued to impress on the defensive line and offer their thoughts on Cam Heyward's hold-in as he reportedly seeks another new contract after signing a lucrative extension just one year ago.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Steelers preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars this weekend live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Will Broderick Jones prove he's ready for left tackle duties, as the the young offensive line that also includes Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick & Troy Fautanu seeks to find its way? How will Kaleb Johnson run the ball as he jockeys for playing time in a backfield that also includes Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And how will Derrick Harmon perform in his first extended action as a starter among veterans like Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? Paul tackles those questions and the Pirates' series against the San Francisco Giants at PNC Park.

Post-Gazette insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap practice at Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They break down the latest Will Howard injury news, which is that the rookie QB is expected to miss the entire NFL preseason with a broken hand, opening up reps for names like Mason Rudolph and Skyler Thompson. They also analyze the punting battle between Cameron Johnston and Corliss Waitman. And react to QB Aaron Rodgers' comments indicating that he does not expect to play in the preseason opener this weekend. Is coach Mike Tomlin making the right move to protect his QB? Or should Rodgers see some action as he looks to build chemistry with weapons like DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth. Our guys tackle those questions and more.

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.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and insider Ray Fittipaldo react to the first full week of Steelers training camp. Why does coach Mike Tomlin seem more upbeat that usual? And what does it signal for his plans as he welcomes new veterans including Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and DK Metcalf to his lineup this coming season? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders some positional flexibility. How much could we see TE Darnell Washington lining up at tackles after he dominated backs-on-backers drills over the weekend? Could he apply pressure to names like Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? And could Mark Robinson make the team at fullback with the linebacker room loaded with talent including Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson and Carson Bruener?

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.

Dan Zangrilli said the Pirates have talked to Paul Skenes about a contract extension. We don't know any of the details, but it's a steep hill. Paul Skenes told Noah Hiles in the Post-Gazette he hopes the Pirates spend money on bats in the offseason and is very notable. Elliotte Freidman is reporting that Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle are reportedly below the offer Fenway Sports Group wants to sell the Penguins.

Hour 1 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Dan Zangrilli said the Pirates have talked to Paul Skenes about a contract extension. Paul Skenes told Noah Hiles in the Post-Gazette he hopes the Pirates spend money on bats in the offseason and is very notable. Elliotte Freidman is reporting that Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle are reportedly below the offer Fenway Sports Group wants to sell the Penguins.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the offensive line struggles at Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They ponder whether coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith can get the inconsistency turned around ahead of the first NFL preseason game this week; whether Broderick Jones is in trouble after struggling against teammates Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and T.J. Watt; and the challenge facing others including Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu as they look to protect QB Aaron Rodgers and pave the way for RBs Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson. Then later, they explain how the veteran days off for projected starters like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey and Keeanu Benton have given other players a chance to shine and prove that this defense has lots of useful players. They praise guys including Brandin Echols, James Pierre, Jack Sawyer, Yahya Black and Daniel Ekuale for their solid performances in team practice sessions, allowing the unit to maintain momentum against the struggling offense.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley discusses Paul Skenes' recent comments to the Post-Gazette on the Pirates' MLB 2025 trade deadline, in which they dealt away names including David Bednar, Bailey Falter and Ke'Bryan Hayes and shifted their focus towards 2026. Skenes is hopeful that the moves will allow the Pirates to make some acquisitions and add to the offense in the offseason. Beazley then compares this with comments made Sunday by general manager Ben Cherington, in which he said that the Pirates never make moves "in order to save money" and said that the Pirates will be more flexible to add in 2026.