Podcast appearances and mentions of troy fautanu

The Steelers opened the Mike McCarthy era with a convincing 28-9 preseason win over the Green Bay Packers, and several young players took advantage of their first opportunity to make an impression. Joe and Brian break down Pittsburgh's preseason opener, including the performances of Will Howard and Drew Allar, Kaden Wetjen's big night, Jamin Davis making noise off the edge, and the depth that showed up across the roster. Plus, we discuss the biggest concerns from the win, including 134 yards in penalties, Troy Fautanu's rough night at left tackle, and which players helped or hurt their chances of making the 53-man roster. Fan Questions Want to be featured on the show? Reach out below: Call: (203) 900‑4SCU (4728) Text: (203) 900‑4SCU Email: fanmail@steelcityunderground.com All SCU Links Podcast platforms, social channels, merch, and more: https://www.steelcityunderground.com/links About Steel City Underground Steel City Underground delivers daily Pittsburgh Steelers news, analysis, film breakdowns, and podcasts — covering the Black and Gold with insight, clarity, and a fan‑driven perspective. Young Steelers Shine in 28-9 Preseason Win Over Packers appeared first on Steel City Underground.

How did the quarterbacks fare in the preseason opener? Drew Allar and Will Howard played very well. What does that mean for the future of Mason Rudolph? Should the Steelers keep Rudolph as a veteran backup? Troy Fautanu did not have a great game. His transition from right to left tackle was a little rough yesterday. Penalties were not the Steelers' friend at all. Unnecessary penalties occurred frequently last night. How did the offensive line perform as a whole? Donny says you cannot be disappointed with the defense's performance. The Steelers only allowed three field goals, including against the Packers' true starting quarterback. Most importantly for the Steelers running back room: Where is Kaleb Johnson? The Steelers' former third round pick is MIA and was not seen much last night.

A special edition of The Bechtold Breakdown: Drew Allar was great. Limits claims his clothes remained on during Allar's play but the jury is still out. What did Austin see from Allar last night? Limits' Allar jersey is...definitely something. The other things that jumped out to him were the play of Troy Fautanu and Kaden Wetjen. Poni may have jinxed Drew Allar on purpose. Limits is on a family trip and was at karaoke bar while watching Allar's performance. 

Tim Benz filling in for Mark Madden

Wednesday's "Letters from Camp" podcast features interviews with Troy Fautanu and Kaleb Johnson. Mike McCarthy discusses the running backs and defensive tackles. We break down a hot day for Aaron Rodgers in the red zone and a camp skirmish flares up over a disputed interception. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Kaboly joins the show for the next hour. Mark thinks that both Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard have a lot to prove in training camp this Summer. Mark says that nobody knows anything about Broderick Jones at this current moment, and that it is probably a lost cause because Troy Fautanu and Max Iheanachor are the team's tackles for the foreseeable future. More with Mark. Ben Roethlisberger said on his podcast the other day that the Steelers should cut Mason Rudolph. Mark thinks that the Steelers should roll with all four QBs, and maybe have one guy come up with a phantom injury that gets him put on the IR. Even more with Mark Kaboly. Mullsy quizzes Mark on a very tough trivia question from last year's Pirates season.

Mark Kaboly explains the term Jump the Shark from Happy Days. Mark and Jeff don't see Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick going back to the right side of the Steelers offensive line. Aaron Rodgers still has good arm talent. Mark isn't concerned about a huge drop off unless there are injuries. 

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to assess the contract extension chances of 2024 NFL draft class members. Does Troy Fautanu deserve franchise left tackle money already? Or does he have more to prove to GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy? Is Zach Frazier a lock to secure top five money at the center position? Does Roman Wilson have any chance at a second contract as he faces stiff receiver competition from DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard? How much could Payton Wilson earn with Patrick Queen's future up in the air at inside linebacker? And will there be enough money left for Mason McCormick at guard come next summer? 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.

Hall of Fame offensive lineman Alan Faneca joins the Steel City Insider Podcast to break down one of the biggest storylines heading into Steelers training camp: Can Pittsburgh's rebuilt offensive line become the foundation of a championship-caliber offense?Faneca shares his thoughts on the transition to Mike McCarthy, the challenges of changing positions along the offensive line, why continuity matters more than talent alone, and what Steelers fans should realistically expect from the unit in 2026.We also dive into:

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles take stock of how the Steelers match up with Pittsburgh's others pro sports teams in terms of chances to win the city's next championship. Do playmakers including Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward Joey Porter Jr. and Jaylen Warren give coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan enough to compete for the Super Bowl this year? Or do the Pirates have an edge in the young talent needed with Paul Skenes, Konnor Griffin, Braxton Ashcraft and others. And what kind of future do the Steelers have after 2026? Are Porter and young offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick enough to build a consistent contender around? 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 Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the team's moves with its 2023 NFL draft class. Are new deals for LB Nick Herbig and TE Darnell Washington a sign of how much GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy believe in that group over the long run? Will Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton also get new deals this summer? And if so, will those players form the team's new core of stars, replacing the old guard led by Aaron Rodgers, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and DK Metcalf? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the defense's future. How long will it remain the highest paid unit on that side of the ball in the NFL? Will the spending outlast the tenures of names like Ramsey, Watt and Heyward in Pittsburgh? Or will spending start flowing more to the offensive side of the ball and names like Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, Zach Frazier, Jaylen Warren and others who could be up for new contracts in the next couple of years? 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 FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter reset the major Steelers offseason storylines following OTAs and minicamp. They start with the quarterbacks and the competition to back up Aaron Rodgers. Is Will Howard the player under the most pressure to impress and hold on to his roster spot for 2026? How far is Drew Allar from competing meaningfully for the No. 2 role? And does Mason Rudolph have any potential to enjoy a renaissance in his 30s as QBs like Baker Mayfield, Gene Smith and Sam Darnold have elsewhere in the NFL? Especially with a known QB developer like Mike McCarthy as his head coach? Later, the guys look at the offensive lines, receivers and defense. How soon will NFL draft picks Max Iheanachor and Gennings Dunker have a chance to start next to established names like Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu? Are Spencer Anderson and Dylan Cook in position to win the other starting spots for now? Where does Broderick Jones fit within that calculus? What have we seen from Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard in the early going as they join DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson? And where has new DC Patrick Graham's influence become most clear within that unit? 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.

The Steelers OTA storylines keep heating up, and legendary Steelers beat writer Jim Wexell is back with exclusive observations from inside the facility. In this episode of the Steel City Insider Podcast, Jim breaks down everything he's seeing firsthand from Steelers OTAs, including:

The Steelers offensive line is completely up in the air. Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick have worked on the right side. James Campen is excited about the line's youth and the talent. Donny doesn't think it would be the worst thing if Max Iheanachor doesn't start Week 1.

Hour 3: Mark Kaboly joins the show for the entire hour! Was Mike McCarthy the only coach that could've brought Aaron Rodgers back to Pittsburgh? The weather for Memorial Day weekend isn't looking good right now. And a caller pulled a prank on Chris yesterday.

Hour 1: Is TJ Watt still a top-ten pass rusher in the NFL? A car caller throws a segment off the rails. And Nick Farabaugh joins the show to go over the latest Steelers news and rumors.

Mark Kaboly joins the guys to talk about whether Mike McCarthy was the only coach that could've brought Aaron Rodgers back to Pittsburgh. What will the Steelers' offensive identity be this fall? How much can you read into OTAs? Mark says Troy Fautanu wanted to jump over to the left side of the offensive line.

Hour 3 with Joe Starkey and Mark Kaboly: Aaron Rodgers told Mark that this is it for him and will retire after the year. Rodgers suggested to Omar Khan that the Steelers interview Mike McCarthy. It is possible that McCarthy is the Steelers coach because he was suggested and recommended by Rodgers. Mark Kaboly thinks the Steelers offensive line will begin with Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick on the left side.

Mark Kaboly thinks the Steelers offensive line will begin with Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick on the left side. He thinks Spencer Anderson and Dylan Cook will start on Day 1. Mark thinks Iheanachor will start, at some point. Mark is interested to see what Brock Hoffman does.

Steve Palazzolo from the 33rd Team joined the show. Steve thinks that the Steelers are slightly improved from last year, citing the receivers as a big reason for that. He also says that Rodgers will look to take more shots down field this year. Steve says that it is important to have linemen that can play multiple positions, as teams will almost certainly face injuries on the line throughout the season. KDKA TV's Bob Pompeani joined the show. Pomp thinks that Troy Fautanu will be the starting LT at the beginning of the season. He also says that the linebackers are going to have to show improvement and the defense is going to have to start playing like the highest paid defense in the league if the Steelers want to be any good this year. Pomp thinks that Victor Wembanyama will be the greatest basketball player of all time if he stays healthy throughout his career. Donny Football Debrief – The Steelers released their training camp schedule for 2026.

Chris reacted to a take from the morning show stating the Steelers have the best overall roster in the AFC North, evening indicating that others in the division don't want to see Aaron Rodgers quarterbacking this team. The Steelers got luck with injuries last season – Joe Burrow missed half of the year and Lamar Jackson was dinged up for the duration. The Steelers roster, outside of QB, may be the best in the North, but that position carries weight like a final exam. Are fans excited about another round of the Steelers with Aaron Rodgers? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray has a hard time saying the Steelers have the best roster in the division because he thinks that is owned by the Ravens. He thinks Baltimore has underachieved and had to deal with Lamar Jackson injuries. Are the Bengals better than the Steelers with a healthy Joe Burrow? Ray described Aaron Rodgers as ‘good' last year, but how confident can we be in him being better in 2026? Ray explained why he likes Rodgers instead of Malik Willis or Kyler Murray. Was the Mike McCarthy hire a way to lure Rodgers back? Ray is 95% sure Troy Fautanu is going to be the Steelers starting left tackle – calling him the best offensive lineman on the team and sharing that he isn't sold on when we see Broderick Jones. Is Dylan Cook going to hold off Max Iheanachor at right tackle? There's been a lot of praise for Patrick Graham so far.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to comments by new OC Brian Angelichio and DC Patrick Graham during the team's OTAs. Is Angelichio correct to focus on versatility for his receivers including Germie Bernard, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson? And offensive linemen including Max Iheanachor, Mason McCormick, Gennings Dunker, Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones? And what can that versatility possibly add for new coach Mike McCarthy's offense? And on defense, can Patrick Graham clean up the communication issues that have plagued the unit at times under coach Mike Tomlin? And if so, how effective can Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey, Jamel Dean and the rest of the group be? 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.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss Aaron Rodgers saying this would be his last season, Aaron mentoring Will Howard and Drew Allar, what Mike McCarthy said in regard to Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick on the left side and what else happened on Day 2 of OTAs. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

McCarthy's Morsels – What did Mike McCarthy say to the media today? 93.7 The Fan Sports Director Jeff Hathhorn joined the show. Jeff to talk to Aaron Rodgers with other reporters today and is glad they got him today or else it would have waited until next week. Does it mean anything that Rodgers declared this his final season? Jeff wants to believe Rodgers can work with Mike McCarthy again and leave it on a positive note. Jeff said McCarthy runs a very rigid practice structure so far. Is there anything to make of the offensive line moving around in OTAs? Jeff expects Troy Fautanu to start at left tackle after playing on the right side his first 2 seasons. Will Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson be the starting guards? Jeff gets the early feeling that Mason Rudolph will be the odd man out in the Steelers QB room. Judge Jack – Who is more to blame for Pirates bullpen woes, Ben Cherington or Don Kelly?

93.7 The Fan Sports Director Jeff Hathhorn joined the show. Jeff to talk to Aaron Rodgers with other reporters today and is glad they got him today or else it would have waited until next week. Does it mean anything that Rodgers declared this his final season? Jeff wants to believe Rodgers can work with Mike McCarthy again and leave it on a positive note. Jeff said McCarthy runs a very rigid practice structure so far. Is there anything to make of the offensive line moving around in OTAs? Jeff expects Troy Fautanu to start at left tackle after playing on the right side his first 2 seasons. Will Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson be the starting guards? Jeff gets the early feeling that Mason Rudolph will be the odd man out in the Steelers QB room.

Welcome to Steelers Morning Rush, our new daily short-form podcast with Alan Saunders, giving a longer perspective on a single news topic surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers or the National Football League. Today, it's the comments made by Steelers tackle Troy Fautanu, who said the doesn't believe in the concept of having a natural position, and isn't sweating at all the idea of moving from right tackle to left tackle for his second season as an NFL starter. Alan breaks it down: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder Aaron Rodgers' official return to the team this weekend. What does it mean that he'll be back in time for OTAs this week, the first under new coach Mike McCarthy? And how will that benefit the team's young QBs WIll Howard and Drew Allar as they look to grow behind Rodgers on the depth chart? Our duo tackles those questions, then considers offensive line alignment for names like Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor, Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier as they look to build cohesion to block for Rodgers and the backfield of Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren. Then the guys wrap the show by analyzing what could be in store for T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and the defense this week as new DC Patrick Graham begins to implement his system. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss what to take away from the first day of OTAs. What does and doesn't matter as the Steelers get the voluntary work underway. The offensive line alignment will be something to keep an eye on as Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick started on the left side and Spencer Anderson and Dylan Cook were on the right side of Zach Frazier in the middle. Aaron Rodgers was of course in attendance following his signing with the Steelers over the weekend. Should we make anything of Will Howard being in front of Mason Rudolph in the QB pecking order? Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy are reunited again for the first time in nearly a decade. Troy Fautanu wants to be a tackle and is fine at either side, but not as a guard.

Today was the first day of OTAs for the Steelers. Yes, Aaron Rodgers was there after signing this weekend, but something else of note – the Steelers jumbling of the offensive line. Troy Fautanu, coming off a great season at right tackle, lined up on the left side today. They also had a few other names moving about the front. What do the Steelers ideally want the offensive line to look like? Fautanu's Phrases – What did Troy Fautanu say to the media earlier today? Donny Football Debrief – Nashville could play host to Super Bowl 64 in 2030 and Minneapolis will host the NFL Draft in 2028. Do you feel differently about Pittsburgh hosting major NFL events after the draft success?

Today was the first day of OTAs for the Steelers. Yes, Aaron Rodgers was there after signing this weekend, but something else of note – the Steelers jumbling of the offensive line. Troy Fautanu, coming off a great season at right tackle, lined up on the left side today. They also had a few other names moving about the front. What do the Steelers ideally want the offensive line to look like?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Christopher Carter preview OTAs for the team, which begin next week at its South Side facility for the first time under new coach Mike McCarthy. What will the QB dynamic be with Will Howard and Mason Rudolph joining Drew Allar after his time in the spotlight for rookie minicamp? Especially with the Aaron Rodgers situation looming in the background? What will we see from new receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard as they start to work with DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson? How will the offensive line sort itself out with Gennings Dunker, Max Iheanachor, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, Dylan Cook and Spencer Anderson all looking to solidify roles next to Zach Frazier? And what does new DC Patrick Graham have in store for the secondary? Specifically safeties Jalen Ramsey and Jaquan Brisker? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to the Steelers' 2026 schedule that was released Friday and the inclusion of four night games and a Black Friday matchup to go with the previously announced trip to Paris to face the New Orleans Saints. 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 edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edger Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo break down the weekend's rookie minicamp. Where do NFL Draft picks Max Iheanachor and Gennings Dunker fit along the Steelers' offensive line? Will new offensive line coach James Campen need to do some reshuffling with names like Troy Fautanu? And where does this leave Broderick Jones? What did our guys see from other draft picks like Germie Bernard, Daylen Everette and Eli Heidenreich? Our duo tackles those topics and more, then takes a look at QB Drew Allar. What kind of attention did he receive from new coach Mike McCarthy? 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 report from the team's rookie minicamp, where NFL draft selections including Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard, Drew Allar, Gennings Dunker and Daylen Everette made their first appearances in uniform. How did Allar look as he looks to compete with last year's rookie QB, Will Howard? How will Bernard fill out the receiving corps next to DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson? And what impressions did Iheanachor and Dunker make as they look to find playing time next to established veterans Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier on the offensive line? Our duo tackles those questions, plus the latest on QB Aaron Rodgers, who still has not signed with the team despite reportedly meeting with team brass including GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 7, 2026 - For Episode 1,890 this Thursday afternoon, Josh Carney is puzzled by the buzz regarding Troy Fautanu potentially moving to guard for the Steelers. ⁠⁠steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani, Joe Starkey, and Mark Kaboly: Mark is 99.9% sure Rodgers is coming. He thinks Rodgers will sign between the 18th-20th. Would you be interested in Baker Mayfield? Mark thinks Spencer Anderson is currently in line to start at left guard. Mark thinks the Steelers need to decide what they do with Troy Fautanu quickly and have everyone else adapt. 

Dylan Cook could be the starter at left tackle and it wouldn't surprise Joe if Cook starts at left and Troy Fautanu starts at right tackle. Mark thinks Spencer Anderson is currently in line to start at left guard. Mark thinks the Steelers need to decide what they do with Troy Fautanu quickly and have everyone else adapt. 

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the team bringing Jaheim Bell back into the fold, the idea the Steelers changed their offseason schedule around in any way to go along with an Aaron Rodgers timeline, if there's a growing sense of frustration with Aaron Rodgers, how NIL deals work if a player comes out in the NFL Draft and potential earnings for Troy Fautanu with a position switch. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Steelers are apparently getting fed up with Aaron Rodgers not signing yet. Why hasn't the old quarterback signed a contract with the Steelers yet? Why haven't the Steelers publicly stated they have no problem waiting for him? They have two quarterbacks who have never played in the NFL before and Mason Rudolph. They should be able to admit they're okay with waiting for him. A pompous caller named Brian chimes in on the Steelers and mis-pronounces Troy Fautanu's name multiple times. A man dressed as a penguin is protesting that the Pens re-sign Evgeni Malkin. If Malkin is not re-signed, what does this mean for the Penguins' future? Dan Kingerski says bringing Malkin back for one more year would serve as a farewell. Poni and I both think Malkin will play with Ovechkin in Washington if the Penguins don't re-sign him. 

Mark thinks Gennings Dunker or Big Max may be the best picks of the draft. He also likes Germie Bernard. Mark thinks that Troy Fautanu could eventually move to left tackle. Legislation requiring separate playoffs for private and public schools is gaining momentum in Pennsylvania.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, coach Rich Muraco of the Liberty Patriots joins to discuss new Steelers WR Germie Bernard who played under him at Libert high school. Coincidentally, Troy Fautanu also played under Muraco, so we dive into him a bit too. We talk about the player and person the Steelers are getting and coach Muraco's Steelers fandom. We then discuss if the draft class would've been more palatable re-arranged, trying to make sense of the process and the value in which they got throughout. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Audibles & Analytics and Yinz Know Ball podcast host Jon Ledyard joined the show. Jon gave the Steelers draft a ‘thumbs down' overall, but he is a big fan of Max Iheanachor and thinks the 21st pick could save the whole class. Jon doesn't rule out Max playing left tackle even though he was a full-time right tackle at the college level. Jon still thinks it makes the most sense to move Troy Fautanu to LT, since he spent plenty of time there in college. Jon was not a fan of the Drew Allar selection because aside from his failures in big games, there is plenty on film that you should be worried about translating to the NFL level. He thinks it will be very challenging for Mike McCarthy to develop Allar into a good NFL QB. Jon reacted to the Steelers selecting a punt/kick return man in the 4th round, who he said would not be drafted if he went into the process as a WR. Is Kaden Wetjen good enough in the return game to make the pick worth it? Jon thinks Eli Heidenreich has a better chance to make an impact than most of the players picked ahead of him by the Steelers. Jon added that Heidenreich was one of the Steelers' best picks.

If the Steelers felt so strongly about Aaron Rodgers coming back, then why are they placing this tender on him? Sure, it's an insurance policy, but that tells us they aren't as sure as we once thought. What happens to the other QBs on the roster? Apparently, there is a team that has interest in Mason Rudolph. That team is the Buccaneers, allegedly. Does Will Howard have more value than Rudolph due to the unknown? Audibles & Analytics and Yinz Know Ball podcast host Jon Ledyard joined the show. Jon gave the Steelers draft a ‘thumbs down' overall, but he is a big fan of Max Iheanachor and thinks the 21st pick could save the whole class. Jon doesn't rule out Max playing left tackle even though he was a full-time right tackle at the college level. Jon still thinks it makes the most sense to move Troy Fautanu to LT, since he spent plenty of time there in college. Jon was not a fan of the Drew Allar selection because aside from his failures in big games, there is plenty on film that you should be worried about translating to the NFL level. He thinks it will be very challenging for Mike McCarthy to develop Allar into a good NFL QB. Jon reacted to the Steelers selecting a punt/kick return man in the 4th round, who he said would not be drafted if he went into the process as a WR. Is Kaden Wetjen good enough in the return game to make the pick worth it? Jon thinks Eli Heidenreich has a better chance to make an impact than most of the players picked ahead of him by the Steelers. Jon added that Heidenreich was one of the Steelers' best picks. Bucco Minute – Pirates pitchers were perfect into the 7th inning last night, but they managed to lose that and the game, 4-2. How much blame does Don Kelly deserve? Dennis Santana was rocked in the 9th after carrying a 0.69 ERA into the game.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's NFL draft picks from over the weekend. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy value development over immediate impact in selecting Max Iheanachor, Germie Bernard, Drew Allar, Daylen Everett, Gennings Dunker, Kaden Wetjen, Riley Nowakowski, Gabe Rubio, Robert Spears-Jennings and Eli Heidenreich? And how will they fit within the roster for 2026 around established veterans including DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Jaylen Warren, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how Iheanachor and Dunker will factor into offensive line plans alongside Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Baldinger said that the ideal pick for the Steelers is Olaivavega Ioane from Penn State. If he falls, Poni sees that as a potential pick for the Steelers. Experts' latest picks have the Steelers picking Blake Miller. If they take Miller, how does that affect Troy Fautanu's position on the field? Other experts have him taking Monroe Freeling. Another name linked to the Steelers is Max Iheanachor. Adam Crowley makes a surprise appearance.

Are we getting the Steelers smokescreens as we sit on the eve of the NFL Draft? Gerry Dulac has his latest, which he normally gets from the top. But as we have seen in recent years, Gerry isn't batting 1.000 when it comes to Steelers draft nuggets. An interesting prospect is Kenyon Sadiq, the top TE in the draft, that could be on the board at 21. Gerry also shared that Makai Lemon is the 2nd WR on the Steelers board. Is there a world where the Steelers do draft a tackle and move Troy Fautanu to guard? Gerry added that there is a ‘zero percent chance' the team drafts Ty Simpson and likely won't select one in the first 2 rounds. ALL ACCESS w/ Aditi – Aditi described this year's draft as ‘top heavy' with so many teams looking to trade back in the 1st round or out of the round completely. Aditi thinks there are 12-16 1st round caliber players in this year's class, based on what she's hearing. Aditi expects a run on offensive line in the middle of tomorrow night. Is the tackle talk just a smokescreen by the Steelers? Aditi thinks Mike McCarthy will push for a WR. Aditi thinks a lot of teams will be jockeying for spots tomorrow night. Aditi's pick: Makai Lemon. Donny Football Debrief – One NFL insider says we shouldn't rule out Carson Beck being drafted in the 1st round. Could it be the Steelers?

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to news that Broderick Jones has suffered a setback in his injury recovery and may not be ready for training camp or the start of the season. Could this force GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy to go hunting for a tackle in the NFL draft later this week? Is Dylan Cook a viable alternative if Jones isn't healthy enough? And would first-round options like Kadyn Proctor, Blake Miller, Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu be fits to join Mason McCormick, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier along the offensive line? Our duo tackles those questions. Then ponders whether the Bengals' trade for Dexter Lawrence over the weekend may complicate the pursuit on a top draft receiver option like Jordyn Tyson, Carnell Tate, Denzel Boston, Makai Lemon or Omar Cooper Jr. to play next to DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. 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 episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to sort through the week in NFL mock draft for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy's team. Is Ty Simpson starting to fade as a favorite choice for experts like Mel Kiper Jr. and Tom Fornelli? Have Vega Ioane and Omar Cooper Jr. begun to emerge as the most common choices with a little less than a week to go before teams make their selections? Are the Steelers serious about projected Day 2 QBs like Cole Payton, Drew Allar, Carson Beck and Taylen Green? Especially with Aaron Rodgers yet to decide if he will return in 2026? Will the Steelers have to take Keylan Rutledge in the second round if they want him? Why has Pitt's Kyle Louis remained a consistent later-round choice for experts? And why do right tackles like Blake Miller continue to show up in mocks despite Troy Fautanu's secure hold on that position? Our duo tackles those questions and more as they ponder who will join stars like Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., T.J., Cam Heyward and DK Metcalf on the team's roster. 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 Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko recap the introductory news conferences for coach Mike McCarthy's new lieutenants: OC Brian Angelichio, DC Patrick Graham and STC Danny Crossman. How will Angelichio handle the uncertainty at QB with Aaron Rodgers still yet to sign and Will Howard and Mason Rudolph under contract? How will he juggle duties with McCarthy calling the plays? And what are his plan for a unit that includes known quantities like Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth in addition to a young offensive line built around Mason McCormick, Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu? On defense, what will Graham preserve about the unit's signature 3-4 defensive scheme under Mike Tomlin? And what might he change up as he inherits contributors like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon and others? 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.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the latest Steelers draft visits of the week, with Penn State guard Vega Ioane being the biggest name. Are GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy narrowing their focus on a player who could fill one of the team's biggest needs following the departure of Isaac Seumalo? Or are they simply doing their due diligence? And how would Ioane fit alongside fellow young linemen like Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick, Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu? Paul tackles those questions, then ponders the visits of Iowa guard Beau Stephens and Ohio State tight end Will Kacmarek and what their additions could mean for the offense alongside stars like DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Michael Pittman Jr. and Pat Freiermuth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.