Podcast appearances and mentions of ray fittipaldo

Ray Fittipaldo joins Mark to talk Steelers, JB joins to talk Penguins.

Ray Fittipaldo joins Mark to talk Steelers, JB joins to talk Penguins. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 1, 2025 Hour 2 - Ray Fittipaldo

Ray believes Aaron Rodgers is going to get every opportunity to be the starter for all 17 games. Could Rodgers come back next season if the Steelers have a great year? Ray thinks it sure doesn't sound like it. Ray has no timetable for a T.J. Watt extension and it's quiet on Watt's side. Jason misses coaches who are tough on players.

Hour 2 with Jason Mackey: Ray believes Aaron Rodgers is going to get every opportunity to be the starter for all 17 games. Could Rodgers come back next season if the Steelers have a great year? Ray thinks it sure doesn't sound like it. Ray has no timetable for a T.J. Watt extension and it's quiet on Watt's side. Jeff Passan thinks the 2027 baseball season is 'in peril" because media rights deals haven't been finalized and a cap and floor is more likely to be considered in the CBA after 2026.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray reacted to the words from Aaron Rodgers the other day, stating that it will likely be his final season. Ray does think this all has a chance to work out, which could mean a respectable showing in the playoffs and maybe even a win. Ray doesn't believe the Rodgers legacy hinges on what he does in Pittsburgh. How much pressure would Mike Tomlin be under if the Steelers can't win a playoff game? Ray thinks pressure could be put on Omar Khan and Andy Weidl to circle that next QB. A few quick hitters for Ray before he said goodbye involving Jaylen Warren, Calvin Austin and TJ Watt.

At the halfway point of the season, the Pirates are 32-50. What has gone so wrong this season? Chris said the real story is about Bob Nutting, but not in the way you may expect. Chris went through a couple of notable owners in sports that showed a true identity. It seems like the GM is safe when he shouldn't be. How many more times can we watch Ben Cherington screw something up? We struggled to think of many major positive moves made by GMBC in his tenure outside of Paul Skenes and Bailey Falter. What will the deadline look like this year? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray reacted to the words from Aaron Rodgers the other day, stating that it will likely be his final season. Ray does think this all has a chance to work out, which could mean a respectable showing in the playoffs and maybe even a win. Ray doesn't believe the Rodgers legacy hinges on what he does in Pittsburgh. How much pressure would Mike Tomlin be under if the Steelers can't win a playoff game? Ray thinks pressure could be put on Omar Khan and Andy Weidl to circle that next QB. A few quick hitters for Ray before he said goodbye involving Jaylen Warren, Calvin Austin and TJ Watt. Total Request Thursday.

Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to talk Aaron Rodgers' comments on Pat McAfee yesterday, the respect players across the league have for Mike Tomlin, the leaders on the Steelers roster, who will benefit most from Rodgers being Pittsburgh's QB, if this will be Arthur Smith's last season as the Steelers' OC, if the Steelers will add another wide receiver, and more!

Hour 3: Ray Fittipaldo and John Wehner join the show to talk Rodgers and Cruz. Can you get a good meal at a low-quality steakhouse? And Crowley says this is a big college football season for Steelers fans.

Hour 1: The guys react to Oneil Cruz getting benched last night in Milwaukee. Should he play this afternoon? And Aaron Rodgers says that this upcoming NFL season will be his last. Hour 2: Who's a better teammate, Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson? What's a polite way to call someone fat? And there is a new controversy with George Pickens. Hour 3: Ray Fittipaldo and John Wehner join the show to talk Rodgers and Cruz. Can you get a good meal at a low-quality steakhouse? And Crowley says this is a big college football season for Steelers fans. Hour 4: Wednesday with Whaley! Who will benefit the most with Aaron Rodgers coming to the Steelers? The guys share airport stories. And does Dom need to lower his voice?

There was plenty of drama in the Pirates doubleheader yesterday. Dennis Santana went after a fan. TJ McConnell has become one of the biggest stories in the NBA. Who are the best basketball players from Western PA. We agree that Pistol Pete doesn't count. Joe runs down the list of other candidates for Western PA basketball Mount Rushmore. We take calls on the subject - there's a ton of candidates. Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss Rodgers vs Fields and which player and team will have the better year, his confidence in Troy Fautanu, who the most impactful rookie will be, his grade for Patrick Queen in 24, his choice for breakout player, if Benton and JPJ can bounce back this year, if Watt will get what he wants, free association. Joe and Sean make their choices for the Pirates All-Century team, and have mostly the same guys except for an argument about Freddy Sanchez's position. Mike DeFabo joins to give Joe medical advice, the possible changes for the Steelers defense (quarters defense), his first impression of Aaron Rodgers. Mike White of the PG joins to share stories about TJ McConell from his youth and how he's evolved his game, his Mt Rushmore of Western Pa basketball, his keys to a Pacers win in Game 7. We can't get a hold of Bob Walk, so we shift topics, our Penguins All-Century team, does Lemieux make the list? What about Gonchar vs Orpik? A few updates to the Pens coaching staff. City Limits calls in. We choose our Pitt MBB All-Century team.

Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss Rodgers vs Fields and which player and team will have the better year, his confidence in Troy Fautanu, who the most impactful rookie will be, his grade for Patrick Queen in 24, his choice for breakout player, if Benton and JPJ can bounce back this year, if Watt will get what he wants, free association. Joe and Sean make their choices for the Pirates All-Century team, and have mostly the same guys except for an argument about Freddy Sanchez's position. 

Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss Rodgers vs Fields and which player and team will have the better year, his confidence in Troy Fautanu, who the most impactful rookie will be, his grade for Patrick Queen in 24, his choice for breakout player, if Benton and JPJ can bounce back this year, if Watt will get what he wants, free association.

Hour 1: Shedeur Sanders got in legal trouble over the weekend. Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to react. And Jason Mackey joins the show to talk about Skenes-Skubal, McDavid to Pens, and more!

Hour 1: Shedeur Sanders got in legal trouble over the weekend. Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to react. And Jason Mackey joins the show to talk about Skenes-Skubal, McDavid to Pens, and more! Hour 2: Is there a major concern lingering with TJ Watt? Bob Pompeani joins the show to talk his feud with Dom, Watt, his go-to foods and drinks, and more! And how much could the Rooneys make if they sold the Steelers? Hour 3: The NFL has released its All-Quarter-Century team. Poni and Dom argue over Brett Favre vs. Aaron Rodgers. And why can't the Pirates do what the Tigers are doing? Hour 4: Poni rips the Pirates for their performance today against the Tigers. We revisit an infamous Pittsburgh sports take. And who at the station will get invited to Donny's wedding?

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to talk about the latest involving the Steelers with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson react to some national commentary about whether or not this will be Mike Tomlin's final season with the Steelers. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Pirates' broadcaster John Wehner each come on The Fan Hotline. June 18, 2025, 8:00 Hour

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

Happy Monday, if there is such a thing! If you were rooting for the course during the US Open, you won. Trey Hendrickson is back in communication with the Bengals. James Rapien of Locked on Bengals joins the show. We play Party Like a Rothstar. Ryan Baker joins us for the final two hours of the program. One CFB QB is getting outrageous hype in the offseason. How should the Cavaliers handle these phone calls about Darius Garland? Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the show to talk college football. Will Howard really likes Aaron Rodgers so far. Which NFL teams/players are going to make us flip them on our TVs this season? A former NFL player may have a surprising pick for best QB in the NFC. Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette joins the show to discuss the reaction to Aaron Rodgers practicing with the team last week. And we finish things off by Telling the Truth.

June 13, 2025 Hour 2 Ray Fittipaldo. Poll Question.  The coolest thing I've seen today. Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to talk Steelers.

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.

Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to give his famous movie featuring no stars, what his early impressions are of Aaron Rodgers, if the Steelers had a handshake deal with Rodgers before he officially signed, if Pittsburgh needs to get a WR2, what Kaleb Johnson's role could be with the Steelers this year, if Derrick Harmon will start Week 1 this year, what we can expect from Cole Holcomb, and more!

Hour 2: Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to talk all things Steelers. Jeff Hathhorn jumps back in for an Oakmont US Open update. And the guys give their top five horror movies.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko recap the final practice of the team's minicamp at its South Side facility. They discuss coach Mike Tomlin's comments with reporters -- in which he did rule out a training camp holdout for star pass rusher T.J. Watt amid protracted contract negotiations. Later, our duo ponders which moves GM Omar Khan could make before training camp, possibly adding CBs like Jaire Alexander or Jalen Ramsey. Or receivers like Keenan Allen and Gabe Davis.

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

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

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

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to talk with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson about QB Aaron Rodgers at Steelers' minicamp, the holdout of LB T.J. Watt and other news surrounding the team.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson continue addressing the ongoing situation with the Steelers and LB T.J. Watt. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Pirates' broadcaster John Wehner each come on The Fan Hotline. June 11, 2025, 8:00 Hour

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

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze moves GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin could make to solidify the roster after officially signing QB Aaron Rodgers over the weekend. Is an extension for T.J. Watt the next priority? Should they pursue a viable WR2 to play next to DK Metcalf? Would names like Gabe Davis and/or Amari Cooper fit in that role? Or could they look for a trade to add to the defensive backfield in the form of Packers star Jaire Alexander, who's being cut by the Green Bay Packers? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Gary talks about the House v. NCAA settlement and what he thinks it means for the future of Hawaii Athletics and the NCAA, he also discusses the NBA Finals and his opinions on the tied up series between the Pacers and Thunder. Dan Greenburg from Barstool Sports joins the show to talk more about what he's seen in the Finals, as well as give his opinion on what he thinks Jaylen Brown will be doing this offseason. Ray Fittipaldo of the Post-Gazette joins the show to talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers and the newest addition to their team, Aaron Rodgers.

Hour 2 with Jeff Hathhorn: Ray thinks the Steelers can be an 11-12 win team with Aaron Rodgers. This will give the Steelers a puncher's chance in a playoff game with a better quarterback. Ray thinks this still sets up Pittsburgh to take a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Fans weigh in on the Steelers signing Aaron Rodgers.

Ray thinks the Steelers can be an 11-12 win team with Aaron Rodgers. This will give the Steelers a puncher's chance in a playoff game with a better quarterback. Ray thinks this still sets up Pittsburgh to take a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Ray and Jeff liked watching Kaleb Johnson and Cam Heyward said Payton Wilson is emerging.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson address a potential reason why CB Beanie Bishop might get cut this offseason. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Pirates' broadcaster John Wehner each come on The Fan Hotline. June 4, 2025, 8:00 Hour

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to persisting rumors that the team may be interested in trading for TE Jonnu Smith. Does Smith really fit on a team that already has Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? How would OC Arthur Smith deploy a trio of talented TEs? Would it help compensate for the lack of a clear No. 2 receiver behind DK Metcalf? What would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have to give up in a possible trade? And how would his game mesh with QBs Mason Rudolph Will Howard and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions; Minkah Fitzpatrick's leadership role that's shown through at OTAs; and Cole Holcomb's return from injury to an ILB mix that includes Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from Day 5 of the team's OTAs at it South Side facility. How did CB Beanie Bishop, a West Virginia product, cause a stir around the facility shared with the Pitt Panthers football team? How's his slot cornerback battle with Brandin Echols and others playing out within coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Is it time for the Steelers to have their own facility, separate from Pitt football and coach Pat Narduzzi? And what did we learn about the training camp schedule with details released Wednesday? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to address the Steelers' meeting with WR Gabe Davis, along with other news surrounding the team.

Mark is joined by Pierre McGuire to talk about the Cup Final starting this week. Mark is also joined by Ray Fittipaldo to talk Steelers. Ask Mark Anything! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to break down the latest with the Steelers

Ray Fittipaldo joins the show to break down the latest with the SteelersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark is joined by Pierre McGuire to talk about the Cup Final starting this week. Mark is also joined by Ray Fittipaldo to talk Steelers. Ask Mark Anything!

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from Day 4 of the team's OTAs at its South Side facility. Why is Minkah Fitzpatrick at these voluntary practices while other veterans including T.J. Watt, DK Metcalf and likely QB Aaron Rodgers are not? How important is it that Fitzpatrick is leading the effort to clean up the late-season issues for coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Alongside names like Patrick Queen? And how is LB Cole Holcomb looking in his return from a devastating injury? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to Week 2 of OTAs. Is T.J. Watt's absence during contract negotiations being overplayed? Or has the edge rusher earned the right to miss voluntary workouts? Plus, assuming Watt is on the field by Week 1, how can the Steelers use him and Alex Highsmith more effectively to ramp up their pass rush? And behind them, is Payton Wilson ready to be a full-time starting linebacker?

Latest Steelers news from Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo.

Ray doesn't think the Steelers will trade for Jonnu Smith. The Steelers already have a ton of tight ends and need a wide receiver. Ray thinks Aaron Rodgers will definitely sign with the Steelers for training camp. The Steelers want to see what Payton Wilson can do in year two. Ray doesn't think Darius Slay was taking a shot at Aaron Rodgers not being at Steelers OTAs.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Austin Bechtold (behind the glass): Ray Fittipaldo thinks Aaron Rodgers will definitely sign with the Steelers for training camp. The Steelers want to see what Payton Wilson can do in year two. Joe and Austin quiz each other on spellings of sports players' names. Is this the worst segment in Fan history?

After Thursday's OTAs practice from the Steelers' South Side facility, Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko share their key takeaways, including what seems to be an increased role for Payton Wilson at linebacker. Has he ascended to a starter next to Patrick Queen? Or is he just a placeholder until Cole Holcomb is healthy? And on offense, what kind of role can we expect from new running back Kenneth Gainwell?

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

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo recap Day 2 of OTAs at the team's South Side facility. What have tackles Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu been saying about their approach to 2025? Can Fautanu bounce back from the injury that ruined his rookie season? And can Jones finally live up to his first-round NFL draft hype after two years of inconsistency? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes how the cornerback group is shaping up, with Darius Slay joining Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr., Beanie Bishop and others. And explains why Wednesday's practice was a slippery one, with Mike Tomlin keeping practice outside despite a heavy dose of rain in Pittsburgh.