Podcast appearances and mentions of zach frazier

In this clip from the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze which Steelers have boosted their stock the most during the NFL preseason. Does Roman Wilson looked poised for regular playing time alongside DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III at wide receiver? Will Scotty Miller play an unexpectedly important role as he quickly becomes a favorite target for QB Aaron Rodgers? What will Yahya Black's role be on the defensive line? Will his snap counts be more in line with projected starters like Keeanu Benton, Cam Heyward and Derrick Harmon? Or other presumed depth options like Isaiahh Loudermilk? And has Broderick Jones shown that he's ready for the rigors at left tackle alongside young teammates like Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

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

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

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

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray gave his takeaways from the joint practice today with the Buccaneers. How much pad crunching did we get? Ray said Vita Vea and Zach Frazier was a fun matchup. There was a near skirmish on a punt. Which team got the most out of this? The guys asked Ray about what we should expect to see from Kaleb Johnson in the second preseason game after an underwhelming first game. Where are things at with the Cam Heyward negotiations? Has Cam tarnished his legacy? Will the Steelers add a WR before we reach Week 1? Ray said there is an argument to be made that Chris Boswell is as impactful as Heyward.

Pro wrestling Hall of Famer Jake ‘the Snake' Roberts joined the show. Jake told the guys what he loves most about coming back to Pittsburgh – he will be in town Saturday night for the Riverhounds game. He said Jim Duggan and The Undertaker are two guys he usually he road to different towns with. Jake told an infamous Haku story, where he bit a guy's nose off. Jake said he got into the snake gimmick because he was a big fan of Ken Stabler. Oddly enough, Roberts is terrified of snakes. Jake was part of the iconic Austin 3:16 promo, losing to Steve Austin in the King of the Ring final in 1996. He had an insane Andre the Giant story, where the big man drank 2 cases of beer in a 2-hour car ride. Jake said he hated the Steelers in the 1970's and Lynn Swann was his least favorite. The guys asked Jake to reflect on the life and career of Hulk Hogan. Jake shared a story that he was in a program with Hogan, but the fans started turning on the Hulkster, so the idea got squashed. Roberts said he had a knack for putting promos together and told us his strategy of putting some notes down. Jake talked about his famous DDT finishing move and how it has become more of a transition move in today's wrestling. Jake told the guys a few of his favorite guys to work with. What was the worst injury Jake suffered in the ring? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray gave his takeaways from the joint practice today with the Buccaneers. How much pad crunching did we get? Ray said Vita Vea and Zach Frazier was a fun matchup. There was a near skirmish on a punt. Which team got the most out of this? The guys asked Ray about what we should expect to see from Kaleb Johnson in the second preseason game after an underwhelming first game. Where are things at with the Cam Heyward negotiations? Has Cam tarnished his legacy? Will the Steelers add a WR before we reach Week 1? Ray said there is an argument to be made that Chris Boswell is as impactful as Heyward. Total Request Thursday.

Live from Latrobe, Cam Heyward and Hayden are back to break down the latest Steelers headlines, share behind-the-scenes NFL stories, and answer fan questions. Then Steelers Center Zach Frazier and Steelers Guard Mason McCormick join the pod. In this episode:

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

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

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

Post-Gazette insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap practice at Steelers training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. They detail spirited exchanges between CB Jalen Ramsey and WR Calvin Austin III; TE Jonnu Smith and S Juan Thornhill; and WR DK Metcalf and S Chuck Clark. Does it reflect a new competitive spirit among both receivers and defensive backs? Then they give an update on QB Aaron Rodgers. Have Metcalf and TE Pat Freiermuth emerged as his favorite targets? Why hasn't he been finding Roman Wilson much in the first week of practice, despite a nice play Thursday? Then they look ahead to the Friday Night Lights practice at Latrobe Stadium. Will we see offensive and defensive linemen clashing? Including Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu on the offensive side, and Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon on the defensive side? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Aaron Rodgers talked to the media today, and we listen to his comments - he's very high on Zach Frazier.

Aaron Rodgers talked to the media today, and we listen to his comments - he's very high on Zach Frazier. Joe claps back at the PM Team for their Favre over Ben argument. He provides a lot of evidence.

The Pirates are winning, and that feels like a problem. Joe reacts to a clip from Rosenthal about trading Keller and Bednar. Could Cherington possibly keep the main trade chips around in an attempt to finish strong. Why was Cherington kept when Shelton was fired? Could Ben Cherington be the worst GM in Pittsburgh sports history? The market for relievers is hot. Is Adolis Garcia a potential option for the Bucs? We run down the list of other hitters who have been rumored, both in the majors and in the minors. How do the Pirates have no good catchers anymore? What is Cherington thinking right now? A caller gives insight on a few prospects the Pirates could target. The Pirates drafted a guy in the 2nd round and he went to college instead. The General offers up a Ryne Sandberg card and throws in Nick Kurtz. Joe asks about a Caitlin Clark card. Mark Kaboly joins to preview the padded practice today, Darnell Washington in backs on backers, if Roman Wilson is in the equation, the crowded tight end room, Mark details his relationship with Aaron Rodgers, McAfee at camp today. Crowley woke up John Wehner way too early. Could KeBryan Hayes be on the move? Joe is worried about mosquitos and aliens. Will Cherington take a big risk or a low risk, could the Pirates have acquired Josh Naylor instead of Spencer Horwitz, what he actually thinks the Pirates will do. Will Hayes be on the move, what's the timeline for Konnor Griffin, who are the top prospects the Pirates could target, reacting to Skenes comments about the team needing to make moves. A look around the NFL: Isaiah Likely, Trey Hendrickson reports, Deion Sanders had a health scare and we speculate his coaching future. Aaron Rodgers talked to the media today, and we listen to his comments - he's very high on Zach Frazier. Joe claps back at the PM Team for their Favre over Ben argument. He provides a lot of evidence.

With camp in session, fans are freaking out about Aaron Rodgers and Zach Frazier, but the stats early on don't mean much. Listen in as "Marky D" gives his views of the black-and-gold from half a world away as the Steelers report. G'day Steeler Nation is the latest edition from SCN on the Fans First Sports Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Were those comments fair? Misinterpreted? Or a sour-grapes criticism of his former team as coach Mike Tomlin moves on with big additions including Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith? Paul tackles those questions, plus the biggest developments from the first padded practice of training camp. From offensive line questions relating to young players such as Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. To Rodgers' mastery of OC Arthur Smith's offense alongside names like Jaylen Warren and Calvin Austin III. Then later, Paul opines on the latest MLB trade deadline chatter relating to GM Ben Cherington and the Pirates.

The Steelers had their padded practice in Latrobe canceled for fans due to thunderstorms today. Instead, they held a walkthrough in the gym. The guys think Zach Frazier and Keeanu Benton would be good MMA fighters. Do more MMA fights end in knockout or submission?

The Steelers had their padded practice in Latrobe canceled for fans due to thunderstorms today. Instead, they held a walkthrough in the gym. The guys think Zach Frazier and Keeanu Benton would be good MMA fighters. Do more MMA fights end in knockout or submission? Payton Wilson says that the Steelers are determined to stop the run this year. The Steelers gave up 200 yards on the ground 1 time in 12 years, and then proceeded to let it happen 2 times in the last 4 games last season. Poni defends the Derrick Harmon pick, saying that their pass defense was not the issue down the stretch. The Steelers going over 8.5 wins is the most bet on win total at ESPN Bet, and the line has not moved. Bucco Auction House – Round 12. The guys forgot that Alexander Canario was still on the team. Donny gets Andrew McCutchen at 14+ homers. Poni gets 5+ Pirates trades before the deadline. Poni gets 1+ Bubba Chandler starts for the Pirates this year.

This week, NFL training camps are beginning all across the country, and a handful of former Mountaineers will battle for starting roles.  KLAS Sports Director Chris Matthuis joins the show to share an update on Geno Smith. Riley Holsinger of Black & Gold Nation weighs in on Zach Frazier and Beanie Bishop. Gold and Blue Nation's Cody Nespor shares predictions on undrafted free agents vying for roster spots. 

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

Zach Frazier's a superstar in making. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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

Mark Kaboly thinks Fautanu will end up being a good player. Kaboly on Zach Frazier: "He's an 8-10 time Pro Bowler in the making." Mark thinks people are underrating the offensive line. He thinks Mason McCormick is similar to Ramon Foster. Mark is interested in what DK Metcalf and George Pickens could have been, but thinks they needed to trade Pickens.

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani, Joe Starkey, and Mark Kaboly: Mark is ok with T.J. Watt holding out for a contract. Mark Kaboly thinks Fautanu will end up being a good player. Kaboly on Zach Frazier: "He's an 8-10 time Pro Bowler in the making." Mark thinks people are underrating the offensive line. He thinks Mason McCormick is similar to Ramon Foster. Mark is interested in what DK Metcalf and George Pickens could have been, but thinks they needed to trade Pickens.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Adam Bittner react to Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers announcing his intent to retire after 2025. Is he serious? Or is there still room for him to return if things go well? And would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin even want him back as they look toward a long-term solution at the position in the form of top NFL draft prospects like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, Cade Klubnik and Garrett Nussmeier in the NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes players stepping into important leadership roles. Can Zach Frazier be a true foundation for the offensive line and aid in the development of players like Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick? And will DK Metcalf bring a professionalism to the WRs room that's lacked in recent years from names like Antonio Brown, Chase Claypool, Diontae Johnson and George Pickens?

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

June 17 – Ep. 60: On this episode of The Depot Dive, Ross McCorkle and Alex Kozora kick things off with a discussion on DeShon Elliott's extension and what it means for the secondary and the defense overall. Next, we discuss some of the positive reports about the running back room coming out of spring practices. How will the division of labor be divided between Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson? And how does Kenneth Gainwell fit into that equation? For the third topic, we discuss Arthur Smith's "wishbone" comments and what that might mean for the direction of the offense overall. Will Aaron Rodgers' history or Smith's history hold more weight? We also discuss what that might mean for Roman Wilson's role with everything else going on with the offense. To wrap things up, we answer a listener question about Zach Frazier's potential after a great rookie season. Thank you for joining us for this 32-minute episode, and we hope to see your thoughts in the comment section. Call the hotline at (412) 254-3145 and leave us a question for a chance to have it answered in a future episode. You can also text the line if you don't wish to have your voice on the show! Follow us on X: Ross: @Ross_McCorkle Joe: @jclark1233 Alex: @Alex_Kozora Steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are we about to be swept into Aaron Rodgers mania? Zach Frazier said Aaron Rodgers addressed the team and said he's all in. More people are getting excited about Rodgers. Crowley thinks people would have crushed Rodgers if he wasn't signed by minicamp and thinks people should use the same energy with Watt not being there. Teo INCREDIBLE calls.

June 2, 2025 - For Episode 1,551 on this Monday afternoon, Ross McCorkle says Zach Frazier deserves more credit for his rookie season and what that means for the Steelers' O-line moving forward. steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the advantages DK Metcalf gives the team as its No. 1 WR in place of George Pickens, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys earlier this month. What does Metcalf do better than Pickens? Will he be a better fit in a WRs room with names including Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods and Roman Wilson? And how quickly can he generate chemistry with QBs including Mason Rudolph and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions, plus lessons GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin should take from the ill-fated 2022 NFL draft in which they selected Pickens, Austin, Kenny Pickett, DeMarvin Leal and others. Then in the third segment, the guys ponder whether Aaron Rodgers or the offensive line -- including young players like Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick -- are more important to the team for its upcoming late-season grind.

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 the offensive line after GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin chose not to add to it via the NFL draft. Is that a sign of confidence in young players including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? What are reasonable expectations for that group this season as they look to provide better blocking to RBs Kaleb Johnson, Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And better protection for QBs including Mason Rudolph, Will Howard and --possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? Later, the guys take a look at how the CB room is coming together with names like Donte Kent and Darius Slay joining Joey Porter Jr., Cory Tice Jr. and Beanie Bishop. And they take a look at how AFC North rivals including the Ravens, Bengals and Browns performed in the NFL draft, with big names including Shedeur Sanders, Quinshon Judkins, Shemar Stewart and Malaki Starks entering the fray.

We evaluate the rookie seasons of Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. Is there a potential bump-in-the-road for the negotiations to bring Aaron Rodgers to Pittsburgh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of reports that Aaron Rodgers and Steelers WR DK Metcalf had a throwing session over the weekend? Does it signal that Rodgers may sign with the Steelers soon? What are Paul's thoughts on comments made by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan at the NFL owners meetings over the weekend? Is his faith in QB Mason Rudolph warranted? Will young offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu heed his message? And should we take positive comments about George Pickens at face value? Paul tackles those topics, then pivots to the Pirates, who lost three of four in their MLB season-opening series against the Miami Marlins. How much blame does manager Derek Shelton deserve for the sloppy play? Is it too soon to panic about relievers David Bednar and Colin Holderman? And which players need to be better starting Monday night against the Tampa Bay Rays?

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to grade GM Omar Khan on his first two seasons of NFL draft picks and free agency signings. How much credit does he deserve for adding contributors including Joey Porter Jr., Zach Frazier, Keeanu Benton, Payton Wilson and Nick Herbig. Can first-round picks Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu still emerge as difference makers? And do the draft classes rely on them to be considered successes? On the free agency and trade front, how should we view moves for names including Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Patrick Queen, Donte Jackson, Larry Ogunjobi, Patrick Peterson, Elandon Roberts, Isaac Seumalo, DeShon Elliott, Van Jefferson and others? Did Khan hit on enough of those guys? Or did the additions end up leaving too much to be desired? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how much help the offensive line may still need despite heavy investment in it the past couple of offseasons.

On their weekly Thursday podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news. Are the Steelers rebuilding, as PG colleague Ray Fittipaldo has argued? Are Mike Tomlin and his coaching staff simply failing with a roster that's built to win? How should the answer to the rebuilding question inform their decision at QB between options including Justin Fields, Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers? Should stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward or Minkah Fitzpatrick be traded if this team does not have serious hopes of Super Bowl contention? And where does the young offensive line, including names like Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier fit into this conversation? Our duo tackles those questions and also weighs in on some negative reaction to the announcement of next seasons Ireland game at Croke Park in Dublin. Then they tackles some 4 Nations Faceoff questions. Is this tournament involving Penguins standouts including Sidney Crosby, Mike Sullivan and Rickard Rakell compelling and worth watching? And is the event's marketing -- and the NHL's marketing at large -- too focused on Connor McDavid and the league's young stars? At the expense of Crosby and Washington Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin? Then in the third segment, airing on the Post-Gazette's new Pirates channel, Adam and Jason ponder headlines from the first week of spring training in Bradenton. Who is more responsible for the team's disastrous MLB offseason: GM Ben Cherington or owner Bob Nutting? How much scorn do they deserve for the Spencer Horwitz injury situation, which has sidetracked one of the few key moves they did make? What should we make out Bryan Reynolds moving to right field, free agent Tommy Pham playing in left and Oneil Cruz continuing his transition from shortstop in center? Will this be a bad defensive group in totality? And is there reason for optimism about Ke'Bryan Hayes, as team and player express hope that they're better able to manage his chronic back issues?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should Steelers GM Omar Khan look to trade for 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel, amid reports that San Francisco is exploring its options with him? Or will the cost be too high, as it was with Brandon Aiyuk last summer? Is keeping offensive line coach Pat Meyer the right move? Or should coach Mike Tomlin be looking for someone else to develop young players including Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu? And how important is it that the Steelers sign at least one of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to a contract before they reach the open market in March? Paul tackles those questions, then offers his thoughts on Pirates spring training storylines with pitchers and catchers due to report to camp in Bradenton on Wednesday. Will Paul Skenes regress at all in his second season? Can Ke'Bryan Hayes ever find his hitting stroke again amid chronic injury issues? And how much upside does Oneil Cruz still have to show?

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to react to the Eagles' Super Bowl victory against the Chiefs through a Pittsburgh prism. What lessons should coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith learn from the Eagles' success? Does the victory validate the Steelers' emphasis on defense and running the ball? And how far away are the Steelers from what the Eagles have in terms of personnel? On the offensive side of the ball, did Eagles QB Jalen Hurts prove the Steelers can win big with player like Justin Fields? Can Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick mature into a line as dominant as Philadelphia's? And does A.J. Brown's turnaround this season engender hope that George Pickens can mature into a key piece of a Super Bowl team? Defensively, should GM Omar Khan put an emphasis on building defensive line depth around Cam Heyward, considering how the Eagles' group was able to dominate Patrick Mahomes for much of the evening? And should there be any regret about passing on Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in the draft? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders whether Tomlin's staff is big enough and structured properly, after Nick Sirianni guided the Eagles to a championship with nine new assistants, including OC Kellen Moore and DC Vic Fangio.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the team's offensive line heading into the NFL offseason. How much pressure is on Broderick Jones to perform to his potential in 2025? What skills must he master to get there? And is he a viable long-term piece of the offensive line of the future? Can Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu already be considered cornerstones for the next decade, despite being drafted just last year? What is Frazier's upside? Can he be a Pro Bowl or All-Pro caliber player after a promising rookie campaign? And where does Mason McCormick fit into the long-term picture amid likely flux at guard with Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels playing on expiring contracts? Our duo weighs options for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin. Later, the guys react to the NFL awards announced Thursday. Did T.J. Watt deserve DPOY over Patrick Surtain II? Were Hines Ward and James Harrison worthy of more Pro Football Hal of Fame consideration following the announcement of a class that included Sterling Sharpe, Eric Allen and more? And what should be make of the Bills' Josh Allen winning MVP over the Ravens' Lamar Jackson and the Eagles Saquon Barkley? Then in the third segment, Adam and Ray preview the Super Bowl from a Steelers perspective. Should fans be rooting for the Eagles to stop Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs from claiming a history-making third consecutive championship? And which team will win the game?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko hand out Driver awards for the team's bests and worsts in 2024. Was Cam Heyward the team's best player? Or do T.J. Watt and others have arguments? Was Justin Fields the biggest winner, earning favor with his early victories before watching Russell Wilson and the offense struggle down the stretch? Was Cam Sutton GM Omar Khan's worst acquisition? Zach Frazier the best draft pick? Chris Boswell the best supporting player? And special teams coach Danny Smith coach Mike Tomlin's best assistant coach? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including the best and worst performances of the season.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to owner Art Rooney II's year-end comments earlier this week. Is Rooney too focused on winning with the running game, considering how it performed despite run-focused Arthur Smith calling the plays in 2024? Do the Steelers simply need to look beyond Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren as lead backs to have more success? Can the offensive line take a step forward behind key young players including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick? And where does the QB situation with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields fit into the conversation. Later, our duo ponders whether GM Omar Khan will spend more money on offense in NFL free agency to balance out the disparity with the defense, which has players on major deals including T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen and Alex Highsmith. And they discuss possible coaching staff changes still to come.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. How much blame does Steelers OC Arthur Smith deserve for the team's late-season meltdown and NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens? How much more should he have gotten from quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson? Why didn't the running game led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren live up to expectations? Should he have gotten the ball to targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III more often? And what responsibility does he bare for the lack of development from young offensive linemen including Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? Paul tackles those topics, then gives his thoughts on Penguins goalie Tristan Jarry being placed on waivers. Was this the right move from GM Kyle Dubas and coach Mike Sullivan? What's next for the franchise at the position beyond backup Alex Nedeljkovic? And could a shake up in goal help Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang in their pursuit of a Stanley Cup playoffs berth?

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's it's how the Steelers have had back-to-back quality drafts, but still end up on the wrong end of the stick when it comes to the level of talent on the team. The Steelers have signed just three players from their 2019, 2020 and 2021 draft classes to contract extensions, and only two of those three will be around for the 2025 season: outside linebacker Alex Highsmith and tight end Pat Freiermuth. While the Steelers have quality veterans in Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, and promising younger players like Joey Porter Jr., Zach Frazier and Keeanu Benton, they're missing a middle class thanks to several weak draft classes in a row. Despite trying to find a shortcut, the only way out of the problem is the way they got in: by winning in the draft. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Can QB Russell Wilson shake of his string of costly turnovers and build passing game momentum with targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and Mike Williams? How will Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris manage in the running game? Were offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Dan Moore Jr. able to provide better protection? How did Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr and DeShon Elliott bounce back after a tough few weeks for the pass defense? And were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith able to get better pressure on Bengals QB Joe Burrow?

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to preview the NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Is this game a must-win to avoid a potential first-round matchup with the Baltimore Ravens and instead draw the struggling Texans? Is QB Russell Wilson's ability to avoid costly mistakes the key to an offensive turnaround? Or is the pressure on Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones, Dan Moore Jr. and the young offensive line to pave the way for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren to have rushing success? On defense, can T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Cam Heyward and the pass rush be more effective in getting home and sacking Joe Burrow to slow his connection with receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins? And can the return of Joey Porter Jr. help the secondary in coverage? Our duo tackles those questions, previews a busy slate of games around the NFL -- including the Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings for the No. 1 seed in the NFC -- and also gives predictions for how Steelers-Bengals will shake out.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the team returning Cole Holcomb, Roman Wilson and Logan Lee to practice on Tuesday. Will any of them be contributors down the stretch? We also discuss if there's a role for Jamal Agnew and or Eric Rowe to take. Finally, we discuss Zach Frazier winning the team Rookie of the Year award and Alex Highsmith winning the "Chief" award. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to an NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Do coach Mike Tomlin and his players have enough time to get back in a groove ahead of the NFL playoffs? Could a potential first-round matchup with the Houston Texans -- as opposed to the Baltimore Ravens -- help in that pursuit ahead of tougher later-round matchups? And are Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and the red-hot Bengals the perfect test of adjustments on defense, led by T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick? Our duo tackles those topics, then dives deep on the offense. What's going on with the offensive line right night? From young guys including Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier to veterans like Isaac Seumalo and Dan Moore Jr.? Has the success of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren in recent weeks been legit? Or padded by game scripts? And can George Pickens lock in mentally to be the big-play threat that OC Arthur Smith and QB Russell Wilson need him to be?

PFF's Trevor Sikkema and guest Jon Ledyard redraft the first 23 selections of the 2024 NFL Draft. 00:00 - Intro 03:40 - Caleb Williams 05:40 - Jayden Daniels 07:00 - Drake Maye 09:50 - Jared Verse 11:15 - Malik Nabers 13:15 - Bo Nix 15:40 - Brock Bowers 17:10 - Laiatu Latu 20:05 - Zach Frazier 22:30 - Quinyon Mitchell 25:00 - Joe Alt 26:50 - JJ McCarthy 28:35 - Marvin Harrison Jr. 30:05 - Taliese Fuaga 33:25 - Brian Thomas Jr. 35:30 - Troy Fautanu 38 - Ladd McConkey 39:20 - Byron Murphy II 40:30 - Cooper Dejean 42:00 - Graham Barton 43:10 - Olu Fashanu 45:40 - Mike Sainristil 47:20 - Dominick Puni

In this episode of Football 301, Nate Tice and Matt Harmon take a deep dive into the 2024 NFL rookie class, breaking down the highs, lows, and everything in between. From quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, whose start with the Chicago Bears has been filled with ups and downs, to offensive lineman like Joe Alt, the guys evaluate how these rookies are performing and what we can expect moving forward.Nate and Matt analyze Caleb Williams' struggles with pressure and sacks in Chicago, acknowledging that the Bears' disastrous season makes it hard to fully evaluate him. Meanwhile, Jayden Daniels has been a revelation for the Washington Commanders, impressing with his football IQ and his blossoming connection with Terry McLaurin. Nate and Matt also dive into the impressive start from Drake Maye, despite a lack of talent around him, and Bo Nix, who's been aggressive with the deep ball but still has room to improve his pocket presence.The guys also look at the receiver class, noting that while Ladd McConkey has been the most consistent performer, it's still early for many of the top draft picks. Despite some growing pains, they remain cautiously optimistic about the potential of late-round guys like Xavier Worthy and some slot receivers who haven't quite hit their stride yet.Additionally, the guys highlight standout rookies at tight end, including Brock Bowers, who's already making waves in the Las Vegas Raiders' offense, and the impressive rookie offensive linemen, including JC Latham and Zach Frazier, who are living up to their first-round billing. The duo finish up with some rapid fire shoutouts on the defensive side of the ball.(3:50) - Caleb Williams(15:40) - Jayden Daniels(26:20) - Drake Maye(36:15) - Bo Nix(48:45) - Wide receivers(1:03:35) - Tight ends(1:08:20) - Running backs(1:13:00) - Offensive line(1:22:50) - DefenseSubscribe to Football 301 on your favorite podcast app: 

Oct. 15 – Ep. 29: On this episode of the Depot Dive, Joe Clark and Ross McCorkle get right into the big news story of the day, which was Russell Wilson seemingly being in line to start his first game in black and gold. We discuss if we agree with the decision, what it could potentially do for the offense, any potential drawbacks, and more. For the next topic, we dive into the injury report coming out of Mike Tomlin's Tuesday press conference. We discuss the offensive line still being in flux with Zach Frazier out injured and the possible return of Alex Highsmith. For the final topic, we offer our final thoughts on the Week 6 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. We talk about Najee Harris' big day, Justin Fields' up-and-down performance, and George Pickens getting some garbage time looks in the passing game. We wrap up the show by answering a listener question about Justin Fields and the conservative game plans for him. Thank you for joining us for this 38-minute episode, and we hope to see your thoughts in the comment section. Call the hotline at (412) 254-3145 and leave us a question for a chance to have it answered in a future episode. Follow us on Twitter: Ross: @Ross_McCorkle Joe: @jclark1233 Follow our work on Steelersdepot.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices