Podcast appearances and mentions of ray fittipaldo

Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss his takeaways from the combine, Ty Simpson and Drew Allar, why the Steelers are so high on Will Howard, WR options in the draft, the ugly Steelers report card, will Gainwell be back, how he graded Metcalf in 2025, Queen's future in Pittsburgh. Recent history shows we can't write off Simpson to the Steelers. 

Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss his takeaways from the combine, Ty Simpson and Drew Allar, why the Steelers are so high on Will Howard, WR options in the draft, the ugly Steelers report card, will Gainwell be back, how he graded Metcalf in 2025, Queen's future in Pittsburgh. Recent history shows we can't write off Simpson to the Steelers. Paul Steigerwald joins to discuss the Pens win last night, Stuart Skinner's presence and if he could be traded, what the Pens need to get into the playoffs, the needs at the trade deadline, if Vincent Trocheck is an option, Anthony Mantha and others on expiring contracts, if Malkin might resign in Pittsburgh.

It's suddenly better times in Pittsburgh sports. The Pirates are the biggest story in baseball, and it's a positive for once. There's nothing fluky about the Pens at this point. Dubas has quickly turned around the Pens. There's even some excitement about the Steelers. Joe is completely right about the reaction if the Steelers draft Ty Simpson and Limits and Donny are completely wrong. The Steelers report card is horrible again. There are only 5 toilets. There's hope, and the Pens are getting results right now too. Callers chime in on the optimism. Drew Allar discussion. Shelty used the word incrinkulent yesterday. I make up a word "fellendoofer". A caller used it immediately. Callers are very happy on this wonderful day. Ray Fittipaldo joins to discuss his takeaways from the combine, Ty Simpson and Drew Allar, why the Steelers are so high on Will Howard, WR options in the draft, the ugly Steelers report card, will Gainwell be back, how he graded Metcalf in 2025, Queen's future in Pittsburgh. Recent history shows we can't write off Simpson to the Steelers. Paul Steigerwald joins to discuss the Pens win last night, Stuart Skinner's presence and if he could be traded, what the Pens need to get into the playoffs, the needs at the trade deadline, if Vincent Trocheck is an option, Anthony Mantha and others on expiring contracts, if Malkin might resign in Pittsburgh. Nick Farabaugh joins to discuss the Cowboys franchising George Pickens, he heard that Ty Simpson was impressive in his interview, the big stories for the Steelers at the combine, the possibility of the Steelers drafting a tackle, Vega Iaone, what the kicker market means for Chris Boswell. Farabaugh uses the word "incrinkulent". A look around the NFL - Anthony Richardson is seeking a trade, JaQuan Brisker, tall vs fast for WRs, random 49ers trivia. Who would be best on TV - Tomlin, Rodgers, or Cam? Kevin Gorman joins from Spring Training to give the latest on Konnor Griffin, how the Pirates have three unicorns, how Griffin has looked in the field, the schedule with the WBC, how Griffin lasted to No. 9 in the draft, his interaction with Sheltie yesterday. The Pirates are one of the biggest stories in the MLB. Things are way better with the Pens. What will the Pens do in goal this weekend? Looking at the slate of the WPIAL basketball games.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. The guys immediately dug into the leaked Steelers report card, which had Art Rooney rated as the worst owner in the league – citing terrible facilities, including the field at Acrisure Stadium. Should the Steelers find a way to stop high school games from happening at the stadium? Ray doesn't think this bothers Art because he claims they are working on upgrades or some new facilities. Ray doesn't think it should be shocking if the Steelers use a 3rd round pick on Drew Allar. Ray thinks any rookie QB selected by the Steelers would be QB3 for most, if not all of the season. Ray is skeptical of Ty Simpson getting 1st round buzz and does not expect the Steelers to have interest at 21st overall. Ray thinks the article listing DK Metcalf as a trade candidate is someone in the media being forced to think of a name. Ray expects the Steelers to add a free agent WR that makes roughly $15M/year.

Louis Riddick thinks it's a little bit ridiculous that the Steelers would consider Will Howard if they have a chance to draft Ty Simpson. How much better is Simpson than Howard? Poni wondered if what Austin is doing with Drew Allar is similar to what he and other Pitt fans did with Kenny Pickett a few years ago. Poni is curious if other Penn State fans are like that or if Austin has a man-crush. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. The guys immediately dug into the leaked Steelers report card, which had Art Rooney rated as the worst owner in the league – citing terrible facilities, including the field at Acrisure Stadium. Should the Steelers find a way to stop high school games from happening at the stadium? Ray doesn't think this bothers Art because he claims they are working on upgrades or some new facilities. Ray doesn't think it should be shocking if the Steelers use a 3rd round pick on Drew Allar. Ray thinks any rookie QB selected by the Steelers would be QB3 for most, if not all of the season. Ray is skeptical of Ty Simpson getting 1st round buzz and does not expect the Steelers to have interest at 21st overall. Ray thinks the article listing DK Metcalf as a trade candidate is someone in the media being forced to think of a name. Ray expects the Steelers to add a free agent WR that makes roughly $15M/year. Power Rankings – Top 5 Steelers draft wish list.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the NFL combine in Indianapolis, where GM Omar Khan spoke extensively about the team's QB situation. The guys react to Khan's comments about Aaron Rodgers as well as backup Will Howard, who has the attention of new coach Mike McCarthy because of his performance in practice over the past year. They also give their thoughts on the 2026 QB class and the possibility that names like Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik or Garrett Nussmeier could be added to the mix with a Day 2 or Day 3 NFL draft pick in anticipation of the stronger 2027 QB class. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to share his experiences from the first days of the NFL Combine with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson talk to Ray Fittipaldo on The Fan Hotline about what he's observed from the NFL Combine so far. Also, could the Pirates get SS Konnor Griffin to sign a contract for under $100 million? And how has Penguins' GM Kyle Dubas been able to strike such great trades? February 25, 2026, 8:00 Hour

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo preview the week for the Steelers at the NFL combine in Indianapolis. What are the biggest questions facing GM Omar Khan amid the coaching staff transition from Mike Tomlin to Mike McCarthy? How does the new staff -- which includes OC Brian Angelichio and DC Patrick Graham -- feel about expensive veterans on the roster including Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and Patrick Queen? Could the team move on from any or all of them this offseason? Could and edge rusher like T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith or Jack Sawyer be on the trade block? And how are things progressing on the QB front, where Aaron Rodgers' future is uncertain and the free agent and trade candidates are lacking beyond names like Malik Willis? Our duo tackles those topics, then details the top prospects to watch from a Steelers perspective at the combine, including Caleb Downs, Jordyn Tyson, Denzel Boston, Makai Lemon, Carnell Tate, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Dillon Thieneman and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday edition of the North Shore Dive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo ponder GM Omar Khan's trade options in the upcoming NFL draft. Would he be more likely to trade up a chase his preferred big-name receiver from the group of Denzel Boston, Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson and Makai Lemon? Or trade back with an eye toward stockpiling 2027 draft capital, when big-name quarterbacks like Dante Moore, Arch Manning, Sam Leavitt, Julian Sayin and LaNorris Sellers are expected to be available? Or is it possible that the right pick could fall to them at No. 21 in the eyes of top draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks need at "playmaker" positions like corner, safety and receiver. Should getting secondary help for Joey Porter Jr. be a top priority, as the future for internal options like James Pierre, Asante Samuel Jr. and Jalen Ramsey looks murky? Could a top safety like Caleb Downs, Dillon Thieneman, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren or Bud Clark be a wise investment given the depth of this class at that position? Why are Chris Johnson and Keonte Scott corners potentially worth watching? And will receivers like Jordyn Tyson, Denzel Boston, Carnell Tate and others be available in enough abundance to help the 2026 team? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray Fittipaldo joins to react to Aditi's suggestion that Rodgers is unlikely to return, Cam Heyward's cryptic post and what could happen with his contract, Watt's contract, if Tyreek Hill is an option, how many WRs in this draft could be impact players, if the Steelers are actually good at drafting WRs still, will JPJ definitely get an extension, Mike Wagner's legacy. Bechtold Breakdown - tanking and if fans should embrace it, Mick Cronin ejected his own player, Aliquippa football wins an appeal with the PIAA, ideal bachelor party spots. 

Pirates Spring Training is almost here! Six pressing questions for the Bucs: When will Konnor Griffin arrive and how much of an impact will he make? Did Ben Cherington do enough this offseason? Can Cruz finally put it all together? Will the defense be terrible? Is the rotation ready to take the next step? Can the team clinch the Wild Card? A caller discusses Konnor Griffin's spring. Is Cruz the baseball equivalent of Kyler Murray? Do the Pirates need to make the playoffs for it to be a successful season? The latest on Sidney Crosby - he's out today. Is it worth it to risk further injury? Tyrese Haliburton could be a cautionary tale for Crosby. What role will Dubas play in the decision? Michael McKenry joins to discuss his knee ailment, what the Pirates goal is for 2026, if a veteran lefty is needed in the rotation, what he looks for in Spring Training, what does Griffin need to do to prove he's ready to start the season in the big leagues, Paul Skenes in the WBC, what is an underrated aspect of the Bucs (Don Kelly), Cutch's offseason motivation, a caller gives his take on Crosby playing in the Olympics and how the Pens contract should be a factor. Pirates number game! Pirates batting average, Ozuna's OPS compared to Cutch, Pirates strikeouts numbers, Cruz's OPS, Pirates HRs added via offseason additions, Henry Davis's average, the Pirates WS drought, Skenes numbers. Ray Fittipaldo joins to react to Aditi's suggestion that Rodgers is unlikely to return, Cam Heyward's cryptic post and what could happen with his contract, Watt's contract, if Tyreek Hill is an option, how many WRs in this draft could be impact players, if the Steelers are actually good at drafting WRs still, will JPJ definitely get an extension, Mike Wagner's legacy. Bechtold Breakdown - tanking and if fans should embrace it, Mick Cronin ejected his own player, Aliquippa football wins an apperl with the PIAA, ideal bachelor party spots. Canada men's hockey survives, will Crosby play in the championship game? Austin would rather see him chase another Cup with the Pens. Would he be susceptible to cheap shots? Callers weigh in. Bechtold fears fantasy baseball. Callers on Crosby and Aliquippa football. Will USA men's hockey be upset today?

Ray Fittipaldo joins to react to Aditi's suggestion that Rodgers is unlikely to return, Cam Heyward's cryptic post and what could happen with his contract, Watt's contract, if Tyreek Hill is an option, how many WRs in this draft could be impact players, if the Steelers are actually good at drafting WRs still, will JPJ definitely get an extension, Mike Wagner's legacy. 

On this episode of The Sick Podcast, Steelers Crazy, Ray Fittipaldo joins Jordan York and Mike Nicastro to discuss the Pittsburgh Steelers' Aaron Rodgers saga, free agency priorities, wide receiver draft strategy, potential cap casualties, Joey Porter Jr.'s extension outlook & more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Aaron Rodgers done? Aditi told the guys yesterday that she is hearing something different than what everyone else is assuming – that Rodgers is done. And not just done with the Steelers, but done entirely. If Aditi is right, where does that leave the Steelers? If that is the case, it will be 6 different starting QBs in 6 seasons. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said the Steelers don't have 100% assurance that Aaron Rodgers will be back. Ray doubts we will know this time next week, but he expects there to be an answer by free agency. Ray believes the Steelers absolutely have a backup plan if Rodgers retires or chooses to play elsewhere in 2026, but isn't sure what it is. Ray confidently said Will Howard will not be the Steelers Week 1 starting QB. If Ray was in charge he would want to retool a little bit, but not completely tear things down. Total Request Thursday.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said the Steelers don't have 100% assurance that Aaron Rodgers will be back. Ray doubts we will know this time next week, but he expects there to be an answer by free agency. Ray believes the Steelers absolutely have a backup plan if Rodgers retires or chooses to play elsewhere in 2026, but isn't sure what it is. Ray confidently said Will Howard will not be the Steelers Week 1 starting QB. If Ray was in charge he would want to retool a little bit, but not completely tear things down.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to address some potential draft selections the Steelers could make this year with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson talk to Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post Gazette and MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo, each on The Fan Hotline. Also, how fast can Crowley run? February 18, 2026, 8:00 Hour

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo ponder the team's biggest needs heading into the NFL offseason. Should new coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan invest more in the offensive line and add a name like Vega Ioane to their young core that includes names like Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick? And how much room for growth does that group still have to become an elite unit? ' Our duo ponders those questions, then considers the possibility that this could be a playmakers draft for the Steelers. Would receivers like Jordyn Tyson, Denzel Boston and Makai Lemon be exactly what this offense needs, regardless of whether the QB is Aaron Rodgers or someone else? How much would such a pick free up DK Metcalf on the outside? And is there a chance McCarthy will seek a running back to complement Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson? Especially if Kenneth Gainwell doesn't re-sign? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: Bill Barnwell said that the Steelers should trade Nick Herbig for Tanner McKee. WHAT? Ray has the Steelers trading up for Jordan Tyson (Arizona State). Joe wants to trade up for Caleb Downs. Ray gives it a 75% chance Aaron Rodgers will be back. Would fans boo the Steelers taking Ty Simpson?

Bill Barnwell said the Steelers should trade Nick Herbig for Tanner McKee. Ray has the Steelers trading up for Jordan Tyson (Arizona State). Joe wants to trade up for Caleb Downs. Ray has the Steelers taking WR Chris Bell from Louisville in the third round coming off a major injury. Ray thinks Drew Allar could go as early as the second round. Ray gives it a 75% chance Aaron Rodgers is back. 

30+ years beyond the fact, a former Steelers OL that never played in a regular season game called out Neil O'Donnell for ‘throwing' Super Bowl XXX. Emerson Martin believes O'Donnell ‘took a dive' in the biggest game. Chris said he's never heard someone suggest that. The guys think it's a tinfoil hat theory. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray has released his first Steelers mock draft and has them trading up to select Jordyn Tyson to add a WR to the room early. Ray thinks the Steelers could double-down at WR on the first two nights of the draft. Ray went through his middle rounds of the draft and how the Steelers could utilize their abundance of picks. Ray has the Steelers using their final pick on a QB, so not one to threaten the future. Ray said Mason Rudolph would be the odd-man-out if the Steelers do take a QB in late April. Ray shared his thoughts on the finalized coaching staff under Mike McCarthy, which is a bigger staff than anything we ever saw under Mike Tomlin. How many guys due for second contracts will get one? Ray still doesn't think the TJ Watt contract was a mistake because the salary cap continues to go up. Ray doesn't think Isaac Seumalo is back unless the Steelers give him a raise. Is Dylan Cook going to get a real shot to start at left tackle next season? Total Request Thursday.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray has released his first Steelers mock draft and has them trading up to select Jordyn Tyson to add a WR to the room early. Ray thinks the Steelers could double-down at WR on the first two nights of the draft. Ray went through his middle rounds of the draft and how the Steelers could utilize their abundance of picks. Ray has the Steelers using their final pick on a QB, so not one to threaten the future. Ray said Mason Rudolph would be the odd-man-out if the Steelers do take a QB in late April. Ray shared his thoughts on the finalized coaching staff under Mike McCarthy, which is a bigger staff than anything we ever saw under Mike Tomlin. How many guys due for second contracts will get one? Ray still doesn't think the TJ Watt contract was a mistake because the salary cap continues to go up. Ray doesn't think Isaac Seumalo is back unless the Steelers give him a raise. Is Dylan Cook going to get a real shot to start at left tackle next season?

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson wonder which Steelers from last season should be kept going into next season. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline. And what's the solution to the Pitt men's basketball struggles? February 11, 2026, 8:00 Hour

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to address some of the biggest needs the Steelers have going into the offseason.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder the team's decision at QB in 2025. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make the wrong call in pursuing Aaron Rodgers over Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl winner Sam Darnold? Could Darnold have replicated his championship success with the Steelers, surrounded by big names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Jalen Ramsey? Or was Rodgers still the right choice to get the most out of an offense that included names like DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell, Jaylen Warren, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the future of Drake Maye and the Super Bowl-losing Patriots in the AFC. Will they become a dominant force in the conference again? Or were there vulnerabilities shown in the big game a sign that the conference remains wide open moving forward if new coach Mike McCarthy can shake things up as new Patriots coach Mike Vrabel did? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this clip from the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bitner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the Seattle Seahawks' victory in the Super Bowl. Did Sam Darnold show that GM Omar Khan and new coach Mike McCarthy can win big with free agent QBs? Could 2026 free agents like Daniel Jones, Zach Wilson, Malik Willis or Mitch Trubisky repeat Darnold's success? Or was he a unique option for Seattle last offseason? And how should Darnold's victory impact the view the Steelers should have of in-house options like Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Later, the guys react to the way Seattle won with elite defense and a strong running game. Can McCarthy and new coordinators Patrick Graham and Brian Angelichio mimic that success? Why haven't the Steelers been able to play great defense consistently under former coach Mike Tomlin with top talents like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Jalen Ramsey on the roster? Does GM Omar Khan need to been up his secondary around Joey Porter Jr. with more elite players like Devon Witherspoon and Nick Emmanwori? And are Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and/or Kaleb Johnson capable of a big-game performance like we saw from the Seahawks' Kenneth Walker III? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Saturday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to sort through the week in mock draft picks for new coach Mike McCarthy's team. How much stock should we put in early first-round receiver picks, given the franchise's historical preference to select them on Days 2 and 3 under Mike Tomlin? Will Omar Khan follow that precedent, or look to add a viable threat across from DK Metcalf? If the Steelers do go receiver on Day 1, are Washington's Denzel Boston and USC's Makai Lemon the early favorites? And where to names like Jordyn Tyson, Malachi Fields, Zachariah Branch and Ja'Kobi Lane fit into the equation? Our duo tackles those questions, then studies the need at tackle and cornerback. Could Khan look at a young standout like Kadyn Proctor as a replacement for Broderick Jones? Or is it too early to give up on the former first rounder? And could Avieon Terrell be a first-round option? Or will they continue to prefer bigger corners in the mold of Joey Porter Jr. despite Tomlin's departure? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray doesn't want to see the Patriots win Super Bowl LX. Ray thinks the familiarity with the staff should help Aaron Rodgers and make the offense better next year. Ray shares that the Steelers are projected to have 12 picks. L.C. Greenwood missed the Hall of Fame. Ben Roethlisberger should be in first ballot, and Ray thinks that Antonio Brown will get in!

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: Ray doesn't want to see the Patriots win Super Bowl LX. Ray thinks the familiarity with the staff should help Aaron Rodgers and make the offense better next year. Ray shares that the Steelers are projected to have 12 picks. He thinks Big Ben is a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Jim Schwartz has resigned as a Browns defensive coordinator.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said the size of staff has really stuck out to him when comparing what Mike McCarthy has put together in comparison to Mike Tomlin. Ray said he's excited to see what Patrick Graham can do with a defense that has more resources than he's used to. Ray said McCarthy called Scott Tolzien to tell him he wasn't going to get the OC job, so his move to stay with the Saints wasn't necessarily his choice. Ray still thinks TJ Watt would fetch the biggest return in a trade, but the salary would scare some teams away. Ray talked about edge rushers being able to age gracefully.

Today is the 20-year anniversary of the Steelers beating the Seahawks in Super Bowl XL to collect ‘one for the thumb.' Ben Roethlisberger has the worst passer rating by a winning QB in Super Bowl history, but he is still the youngest QB to win the game. Is it weird that Ben apparently hates Super Bowl XL because he had a bad game, even though he was the biggest reason why they got there? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said the size of staff has really stuck out to him when comparing what Mike McCarthy has put together in comparison to Mike Tomlin. Ray said he's excited to see what Patrick Graham can do with a defense that has more resources than he's used to. Ray said McCarthy called Scott Tolzien to tell him he wasn't going to get the OC job, so his move to stay with the Saints wasn't necessarily his choice. Ray still thinks TJ Watt would fetch the biggest return in a trade, but the salary would scare some teams away. Ray talked about edge rushers being able to age gracefully. Total Request Thursday.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to address more of the coaching moves the Steelers have made this week with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to rank the Steelers' six Super Bowl victories with the big game looming this weekend. Do our guys give the edge to the Steel Curtain teams of the 1970s, led by names like "Mean" Joe Green, Terry Bradshaw, John Stallworth, Lynn Swann, Franco Harris, Mel Blount, Jack Lambert and Jack Ham? Or do they prefer the 2000s teams led by Ben Roethlisberger, Jerome Bettis, Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu and James Harrison? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes this years matchup between Drake Maye and the Patriots and Sam Darnold and the Seahawks, two teams the Steelers faced in 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo discuss Chris's first mock draft of the season following his visit to the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. over the weekend. Should coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan get aggressive at wide receiver given the depth of this class? How could names like Makai Lemon and Malachi Fields fit in the receivers room alongside names like DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson? Is Miami's Keionte Scott a potential fit alongside Joey Porter Jr. at CB? And why does Chris like prospects including safety Bud Clark, guard Beau Stephens and quarterback Cole Payton alongside veterans like Jalen Ramsey, Mason McCormick, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? Our duo tackles those questions, plus Scott Tolzien's OC candidacy. Does he have the experience necessary to thrive in the role? Especially with McCarthy likely retaining playcalling duties? Could his game plans get the most out of names like Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson and others? Especially with the young offensive line that includes names like Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones and Mason McCormick maturing? Or are there valid reasons for concern, especially with the future at QB uncertain? Could Tolzien succeed with Aaron Rodgers, Will Howard or Mason Rudolph? And how would the former quarterback help in terms of development should the Steelers look at names like Ty Simpson, Drew Allar, Garrett Nussmeier and Kade Clubnik in the NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paul Zeise hosting for Mark. Ray Fittipaldo joins at the bottom of the hour to chat the Steelers latest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Zeise hosting for Mark. Ray Fittipaldo joins at the bottom of the hour to chat the Steelers latest.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: Ray said things are all lining up for Aaron Rodgers to be back next season. Ray thinks the AFC is potentially wide open next year again, too. Alan said the defensive scheme is going to stay pretty similar with Patrick Graham. Kyle Louis from Pitt "made a ton of money this week" and Alan thought that he was awesome in coverage.

Ray Fittipaldo said things are all lining up for Aaron Rodgers to be back next season. Ray thinks the AFC is potentially wide open next year again, too. Ray thinks Patrick Graham working for Mike McCarthy was very important in the hire.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said his understanding is that the Steelers will hire Patrick Graham as their next DC. Ray talked about some of the overturn in the coaching staff and that we could see more coaches under Mike McCarthy. Ray wouldn't be surprised at all if Aaron Rodgers is back as the Steelers QB and thinks it could even be for a raise. Ray expects us to largely see the same Rodgers that we saw last season. Will it look any different in the McCarthy offense? The guys asked Ray about the love for Will Howard and if there is a real chance the kid is the Steelers QB1 by the season opener? Ray expects us to know in 4-6 weeks if Rodgers will be back. Ray immediately jumped to Malik Willis when asked about an outside QB that could be here if Rodgers decides to retire or play elsewhere.

There are conflicting reports surrounding Patrick Graham, who is expected to be the Steelers next defensive coordinator. Some reports say the deal is done, but others say that is not the case and he still has to interview with the team. Graham's defenses don't look good on the surface, but are they as bad as that? His defenses have performed better than the Steelers defense in recent years, which is the highest paid unit in the game. The Raiders have Maxx Crosby, but outside of that, there isn't a ton of talent there and certainly not what the Steelers offer. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray said his understanding is that the Steelers will hire Patrick Graham as their next DC. Ray talked about some of the overturn in the coaching staff and that we could see more coaches under Mike McCarthy. Ray wouldn't be surprised at all if Aaron Rodgers is back as the Steelers QB and thinks it could even be for a raise. Ray expects us to largely see the same Rodgers that we saw last season. Will it look any different in the McCarthy offense? The guys asked Ray about the love for Will Howard and if there is a real chance the kid is the Steelers QB1 by the season opener? Ray expects us to know in 4-6 weeks if Rodgers will be back. Ray immediately jumped to Malik Willis when asked about an outside QB that could be here if Rodgers decides to retire or play elsewhere. Total Request Thursday.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to react to Mike McCarthy's first press as head coach of the Steelers with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson spot some immediate differences they've noticed between former Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin and current Steelers' head coach Mike McCarthy. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline. And how was coach Bill Belichick not voted into the NFL Hall-Of-Fame this year? January 28, 2026, 8:00 Hour

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the impact Mike McCarthy's hiring to replace Mike Tomlin as coach could have on the offense. Could he get more from players including DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington, Jaylen Warren and others under contract for 2026? Was that a point of emphasis for owner Art Rooney II and GM Omar Khan in making this move? And what will that mean for the QB situation with Aaron Rodgers' future uncertain ahead of names like Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponder what McCarthy could be looking for in an offensive coordinator. Will it be another established name like Arthur Smith, who's now off to Ohio State? Or could he lean on a younger name from his own coaching tree? With Scott Tolzien being one notable option from that list? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the introduction of Mike McCarthy as Steelers coach, replacing Mike Tomlin. They explain how McCarthy showed his love for his hometown; his belief in the existing defensive scheme that dates to Bill Cowher and has produced standouts from Levon Kirkland to T.J. Watt; his kind words for QBs Will Howard and Aaron Rodgers; his plan to call the plays as he has throughout his career, rather than deferring to an offensive coordinator; and his belief in the running game as he ponders free agency decisions involving players from Kenneth Gainweel and Jaylen Warren to Isaac Seumalo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ira On Sports - Ray Fittipaldo 012626 by Ira On Sports

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the team's decision to hire Mike McCarthy as its replacement at head coach for Mike Tomlin. Does this move finally give the franchise a fighting chance to develop a young quarterback and functional offense? With pieces in place that include names like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth, Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick? Can McCarthy win without a franchise QB type like Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers or Dak Prescott at the helm? Could he develop Will Howard or an NFL draft rookie like Ty Simpson, Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik or Garrett Nussmeier? Or could he foster a career renaissance like we've seen Sam Darnold enjoy for another veteran QB like Malik Willis? Our duo tackles those questions and more now that owner Art Rooney II and GM Omar Khan have chosen McCarthy over names like Chris Shula, Nate Scheelhaase, Anthony Weaver and Brian Flores. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray would trade Jalen Ramsey and cut Patrick Queen. Ray doesn't think the Steelers can pay Ramsey $17 million to be a safety. The money they save on Mike Tomlin's big salary could go be spent to hire additional coaches. Ray hasn't heard anything about Mario Cristobal and has been quiet. Anthony Weaver is "a serious candidate" for the Steelers.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: Ray Fittipaldo would trade Jalen Ramsey and cut Patrick Queen. Ray doesn't think the Steelers can pay Ramsey $17 million to be a safety. Ray hasn't heard anything about Mario Cristobal and has been quiet. Ray thinks that Anthony Weaver is "a serious candidate" for the Steelers head coaching job. The most important numbers to look back on during the 2025 season.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo for the latest updates on the coaching search to replace Mike Tomlin. What should we make of Jeff Hafley choosing the Dolphins after interviewing with the Steelers last week? Will owner Art Rooney II and GM Omar Khan wait for candidates Chris Shula and Nate Scheelhaase, who work for teams still alive in the NFL playoffs? Or will they want to move more quickly for candidates like Brian Flores, who's getting a second interview this week? And will there be pressure to make a move given the many other openings around the NFL, including two in the AFC North division following the departures of Keven Stefanski from the Browns to the Falcons, and John Harbaugh from the Ravens to the Giants? Our duo tackles those questions plus NFL conference championship storylines as the Rams face the Seahawks in the NFC and the Patriots take on the Broncos in the AFC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.