Post-Gazette Sports Network: Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and more

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the team's four-game series against the Washington Nationals this week. Are Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller in must-win situations following the weekend sweep vs. the Cincinnati Reds? Can Skenes bounce back from his rough start last week vs. the St. Louis Cardinals? And what should we make of fellow rotation members Andrew Heaney and Bailey Falter? Noah tackles those questions; offers injury updates on Joey Bart, Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz; ponders call-ups for prospects including Matt Gorski and Nick Yorke amid a promotion for Henry Davis; and offers stories to watch from the other dugout with the Nationals. 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, host Christopher Carter explains his Steelers NFL draft big board, with additional insight from Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo. Why is Chris down on the 2025 QB class? Ranking Shedeur Sanders barely inside his top 50 and Jaxson Dart outside the top 100? Where does Jalen Milroe fit into that mix? How much of a drop off is there from top DTs like Walter Nolen, Kenneth Grant and Derrick Harmon to later-round options? What about the gap between top running backs like Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton to others in this deeper class? At what positions can GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin most wait to find useful players? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes the ways that T.J. Watt's contract situation has been impacted by the lucrative extension that the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns gave star pass rusher Myles Garrett this offseason. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Steelers NFL mock draft tracker video, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko react to the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. -Does GM Omar Khan's heavy focus on QBs like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart in top 30 visits signal a preference to target that position over defensive line and names like Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen and others? Or should we not read too far into the players coach Mike Tomlin is seeing up close? -What does it mean for defensive line scouting that Harmon has visited the team but names such as Nolen, Grant, Darius Alexander and Alfred Collins have not? -Should we give Kyle McCord and his prodigious stats at Syracuse a longer look as a later-round QB option? -Is Emeka Egbuka underrated as a complement to George Pickens and DK Metcalf? -How closely should we be watching defensive linemen projected for later rounds? Names like Ty Robinson and JJ Pegues? -Is Bhayshul Tuten the home run hitter this backfield needs next to Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Or should the Steelers being looking more at power backs like Omarion Hampton, Kaleb Johnson or Devin Neal? -Do defensive backs like Maxwell Hairston and Denzel Burke make any sense? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes KDKA-TV's Rich Walsh to tackle some hot Pittsburgh sports topics and learn more about Rich's career in television. On the football front, Rich explains why he doesn't want the Steelers to reach for a QB like Jaxson Dart in the NFL draft and gives his thoughts on keeping George Pickens next to DK Metcalf vs. trading him for an opportunity to get back into the second round. Then our duo tackles the Pirates' slow start and Penguins GM Kyle Dubas' chances of turning the team around before Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin retire. Later, Jason learns about Rich's journey from growing up in Penn Hills to becoming a key piece of KDKA's sports coverage team; what a day in the life of a TV sports anchor looks like and how that's changed over the years; and the nuance of the medium that Rich has learned through time. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles streams LIVE ahead of the club's weekend series against the Cincinnati Reds. Can Bailey Falter keep the rotation's momentum going? After Carmen Mlodzinski and Mitch Keller turned in winning performances in the series victory against the St. Louis Cardinals? What difference will the return of Kyle Nicolas make in the bullpen? And can Andrew McCutchen, Oneil Cruz, Ke'Bryan Hayes and the offense get going in the hitter-friendly Great American Ballpark? 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 Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to T.J. Watt's cryptic Instagram post this week and reports from some national sources that contract negotiations with the linebacker may have hit some snags. Is it too soon in the process for fans to be concerned? Or is there a genuine chance Watt could leave the team that drafted him in 2017? Does Watt deserve to get paid like fellow defensive stars Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby and Micah Parsons? And should coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan consider a trade of Watt if they feel an extension can't be reached? Our duo tackles those topics, then talks about the defensive tackle class in the NFL draft following Oregon star Derrick Harmon's visit this week. When will other top prospects at the position like Kenneth Grant and Walter Nolen make visits to the team? Then in the third segment, the guys wonder whether the Steelers have brought enough receiver and cornerback prospects to Pittsburgh as they look for answers next to DK Metcalf and George Pickens on offense, plus Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay on defense. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Did Steelers GM Omar Khan back himself into a corner by not addressing the defensive line in a major way in free agency? Forcing a possible tough choice between QBs like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart and DLs like Kenneth Grant, Derrick Harmon and Walter Nolen in the NFL draft? Are negotiations between the Steelers and star pass rusher T.J. Watt going poorly? As NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport suggested Thursday following the release of a cryptic Instagram post from Watt? Or are fans and media getting ahead of themselves in reacting to the innocuous photo of Watt flashing a peace sign? Is giving Watt and extension the right move, given his personal lack of playoff success? And how long can he, Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick realistically be cornerstones of Mike Tomlin's defense as they have been for much of the last decade? Paul tackles those questions, Sanders' visit to the team's facility ahead of the NFL draft and the Pirates' series victory against the St. Louis Cardinals. Does it suggest a turnaround could be ahead for Paul Skenes, Bryan Reynolds, Andrew McCutchen, etc.? Or are the obvious offensive woes still a major concern? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to the week in Pittsburgh sports news. Is Aaron Rodgers delaying his deal with the Steelers out of fear of losing his job like Kirk Cousins did to Michael Penix Jr. with the Atlanta Falcons last season? As Fox Sports insider Jason McIntyre has speculated? What should we make of Justin Fields' comments to reporters, in which he said he didn't feel "comfortable" with Mike Tomlin and the Steelers following his midseason benching in favor of Russell Wilson? How seriously should the GM Omar Khan be taking Shedeur Sanders as a draft option? Whether or not Rodgers signs? And was T.J. Watt being cryptic in an Instagram post in which he gave a peace sign? Or are fans and observers looking too far into it and what it means for his future with the Steelers? Our duo tackles those questions and more. In the second and third segments, airing on the Post-Gazette’s new Pirates YouTube channel, the guys give their thoughts on a busy week for the Pirates on and off the field. How much criticism does team president Travis Williams deserve for the Bucco Bricks fiasco, the bungled tribute to Roberto Clemente, attendance issues and the state of PNC Park? Are the problems with the Pirates as a business eclipsing their shortcomings on the field? And how much is owner Bob Nutting paying attention to his club's issues amid relentless chants for him to "sell the team" that started at the home opener last weekend and have not subsided? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes on-field performance in the second segment. Should we worry about a small dip in Paul Skenes' velocity in his worst start as a Pirates on Tuesday in a loss to the Cardinals? Are Justin Lawrence, Denis Santana and Caleb Ferguson the answers manager Derek Shelton has been looking for in the bullpen following struggles from David Bendar and Colin Holderman in high-leverage roles? Should we be more encouraged or discouraged by Ke'Bryan Hayes' start to the season offensively? How much grace will veterans Tommy Pham and Adam Frazier get amid their struggles? And how important does Andrew McCutchen remain to this lineup? If you haven’t already, subscribe to the sports department’s YouTube channels so you don’t miss a video with our reporters, columnists and their special guests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley break down the Pirates' series win over the NL Central rival St. Louis Cardinals, which concluded Wednesday afternoon with a 2-1 win in 13 innings. The recap begins with a full review of the pitching staff, specifically highlighting the progress made in the bullpen. Did arms like Dennis Santana and Justin Lawrence show the relievers can still compete without David Bednar and Colin Holderman? Their attention then shifts to the continued concerns at the plate and if the current hitters on the roster are able to turn things around after players like Andrew McCutchen and Jack Suwinski struggled at various points throughout the three games. Finally, the discussion is concluded with a look ahead, wondering if the Pirates can carry over the momentum from three wins in their last four games into their upcoming weekend road trip against the Reds. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Could Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin get QBs Aaron Rodgers and Shedeur Sanders to peacefully coexist if both were added this offseason via NFL free agency and the NFL draft, respectively? How long would Rodgers be able to hold Sanders off in such a scenario? Should we interpret Sanders' scheduled visit Thursday as genuine interest in him from the front office? And how much longer will we need to wait for a decision from Rodgers, after Pat McAfee signaled no news is forthcoming from his Pittsburgh event Wednesday night? Paul tackles those questions then reacts to the Pirates' series against the St. Louis Cardinals. Should we worry about Paul Skenes after his rough start Tuesday night? How much scrutiny does president Travis Williams deserve after PR gaffes related to the Roberto Clemente tribute in right field and the commemorative bricks at PNC Park that the club is in the process of replacing? And what does this first homestand's attendance signal about support for GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to QB Shedeur Sanders' scheduled visit to the team's facility ahead of the NFL draft. Do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have genuine interest in Deion Sanders' son should he fall from the top five in the draft? Or is it a smokescreen designed to obscure Khan's true interests? And how would Sanders fit in QB room with the likes of Mason Rudolph and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions, then reviews other top 30 visits to this point. Is Jaxson Dart on the Steelers' radar after his own visit? Is WR Matthew Golden still on the first-round radar, despite the DK Metcalf trade? Why haven't more offensive visitors been in the projected first-round range? And what should we make of the fact that none of the projected first-round DL options have visited? A list that includes names like Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, Darius Alexander and Tyleik Williams? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes newly signed defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale to the show. How does the the veteran fit into coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin's defense alongside names like Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? How does he believe his career-best season a year ago with the New England Patriots can translate to his new team? And what are his personal relationships to Steelers past and present including Isaac Seumalo and Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu? 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.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers be paying attention to the first-round buzz starting to swirl around Alabama QB Jalen Milroe after he was invited to attend the NFL draft in-person later this month? Or should he still be a guy GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider only in the later rounds? And how does his game stack up against other possible QB targets including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough and Will Howard? Paul tackles those questions, offers thoughts on the signing of OT Calvin Anderson as depth behind Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu and reacts the Pirates' weekend series loss to the Yankees in which SPs Mitch Keller and Bailey Falter struggled against a tough lineup led by Aaron Judge. 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, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to talk in depth about the team's needs at receiver heading into the NFL draft in a couple of weeks. How much do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin's plans at the position hinge on George Pickens' future? Could they still target a Day 1 option like Emeka Egbuka, Luther Burden III or Matthew Golden to pair with DK Metcalf for the long term? Or is the need at positions like QB, RB and DT too great to ignore? How do other internal options like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III fit into the conversation? If the Steelers go with a Day 2 option like Tre Harris, Elic Ayomanor, Jayden Higgins, Jack Bech, Jaylin Noel or Jaylen Royals, which traits will be most important them? And what role should special teams play in this conversation, especially as it pertains to possible Day 3 options like Pat Bryant or Chimere Dike? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks QBs. Could we finally get a decision from Aaron Rodgers this week? If he doesn't sign, would that elevate the chances the team targets names like Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough or Jalen Milroe in the draft? Or would they look more toward veterans like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and/or Carson Wentz? And could Milroe's stock be surging amid his invite to attend the draft in-person in Green Bay, Wisc.? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the club's series against the St. Louis Cardinals LIVE. What grade should we give manager Derek Shelton's club after its first 10 games of 2025? What should we make of the rotation after a rough week for names including Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter, Carmen Mlodzinski and Thomas Harrington behind Paul Skenes? And how encouraged should we be by Ke'Bryan Hayes' start at the plate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the weekly NFL mock draft tracker show, host Derrick Stilley welcomes Steelers insider Christopher Carter to look at the latest popular picks. Defensive tackle has been a popular position in Round 1, but could the Steelers double-dip in Round 2? Would QB Jaxson Dart be a reach in the first round like Kenny Pickett was in 2022? And is there a world in which the Steelers draft a wide receiver early after trading for DK Metcalf? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates TV reporter Robbie Incmikoski joins Post-Gazette columnist Jason Mackey to talk about the 2025 Pirates, his book "Sacred Grounds: What Our Ballparks Mean to Us" and more. How does Paul Skenes stack up against some other players he’s covered? And what led Incmikoski to pursue a career in TV, and what does he want his next professional chapter to be? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers reporters Christopher Carter and Brian Batko take a look at the quarterbacks in the NFL draft class and ask: Would taking one in Round 1 be Kenny Pickett all over again? Plus, who are some outside-the-box picks we have our eyes on, and who could be a trade-up candidate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insider Noah Hiles and columnist Jason Mackey preview Friday's home opener and address the elephant in the room: Will fans boo manager Derek Shelton and the team? And if so, is that fair? Plus they offer thoughts on how the Pirates can jump-start their offense, the evolution of Mitch Keller as a pitcher and the questions about who can stop the bleeding in the bullpen? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers have pushed harder to trade for QB Joe Milton III, who went from the Patriots to the Cowboys on Thursday in exchange for a pair of later-round draft picks? Could he have more upside than Mason Rudolph as a backup? Or would his age and room for development even made him a preferable option to Aaron Rodgers that GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin should have pursued? Paul tackles those topics; reacts to visits by NFL draft prospects including WR Matthew Golden, RB Kaleb Johnson, CB Azareye'h Thomas and TE Gavin Bartholomew; and gives his thoughts on the sorry state of the Pirates ahead of the home opener Friday against the New York Yankees. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Jason Mackey react to the week in Pittsburgh sports news. What should we make of comments from Steelers owner Art Rooney II, coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan about their pursuit of Aaron Rodgers? Is it wise for the Steelers to look toward the 2026 NFL draft for their QB of the future, given the many compensatory picks they’ll have at their disposal to try to trade up? Are options beyond Arch Manning compelling? Or are Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, LaNorris Sellers and Garrett Nussmeier similar to this year's crop, which includes names like Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart and Will Howard? Are Jeff Capel and Pitt basketball in trouble after Jaland Lowe and Jorge and Guillermo Diaz-Graham entered the transfer portal? Or can they draw hope from quick and major turnarounds from Final Four programs like Auburn and Houston? How closely should we be watching new Penguins faces including Ville Koivunen and Rutger McGroarty? And in the third segment, airing on the Post-Gazette’s Pirates YouTube channel, our duo offers thoughts on the club’s ugly start to the season. Are GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton caught between what’s best for the club’s long-term future and what’s best for retaining their jobs short-term in some of their roster decisions involving names like Carmen Mlodzinski and Thomas Harrington? What is the deal with the six-man rotation? Shouldn’t we want to see more — rather than less — of Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller? Whose slow offensive start should we be most worried about? Tommy Pham, Jack Suwinski, Ke’Bryan Hayes, or someone else? And how frosty will the home opening reception be against the New York Yankees on Friday at PNC Park? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles and sports columnist Jason Mackey break down the team's series loss to the Tampa Bay Rays this week. Did Wednesday's win, led by Paul Skenes, show this team can get on the right track? Or should Derek Shelton's club expect a chilly reaction from its fans when it returns to Pittsburgh for Friday's home opener on Friday? What is the state of the bullpen without David Bednar, who was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis on Tuesday? What should the Pirates do with Colin Holderman, who struggled again Wednesday? Is Dennis Santana the club's de facto closer? And how concerned should we be with the team's underwhelming hitting through seven games from players like Tommy Pham and Jack Suwinski? Our duo answers 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.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. How closely should GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers consider drafting a RB in the first round to replace Najee Harris alongside Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Are names like Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton and Kaleb Johnson worth forgoing other positions of need to select? Do they need a defensive lineman like Derrick Harmon, Walter Nolen or Kenneth Grant more? And what should we make of colleague Gerry Dulac's reporting that RB could be an option in "any" round? Paul tackles those questions as well as the Pirates' series finale with the Tampa Bay Rays. Was Paul Skenes able to steady the ship after a 1-5 start to the season? And how hostile will fans be toward owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington and manager Shelton with the home opener looming Friday? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to owner Art Rooney II's comments about the team's pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers via NFL free agency. Is Rodgers now on the clock to make a decision before the NFL draft? How much will his decision factor into the calls coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan make about who to select in the draft? And what will the consequences be in terms of perception if Rodgers decides not to sign, leaving the Steelers with either Mason Rudolph or other free agents including Drew Lock, Joe Flacco and Carson Wentz as their QB options for 2025? Our duo tackles those topics, then gets into Ray's latest seven-round NFL mock draft. Why does he like Kenneth Grant from Michigan as the team's first-round pick? Could Louisville QB Tyler Shough make sense as a potential backup or even starter of the future? And why is Ray looking at names including Oklahoma State RB Ollie Gordon, Indiana DL CJ West, Florida WR Chimere Dike and Wisconsin OT Jack Nelson in later rounds? Then in the third segment, Chris and Ray weigh NFL rule changes that were and were not approved at the owners meetings this week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles breaks down the team's decision Tuesday to option David Bednar to Triple-A Indianapolis. Where does the two-time All-Star closer go from here? What happened to Bednar in the first place, and how likely is it that he'll regain his form in the minor leagues? When could he potentially contribute again to the Pirates bullpen? And in his absence, who will step up to close out games for Derek Shelton's struggling team? Noah answers all 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.

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 Steelers owner Art Rooney II telling reporters Tuesday he feels "pretty good" about the team signing Aaron Rodgers to be its starting quarterback? How long should Rooney, general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin wait before moving on from Rodgers, either for internal candidate Mason Rudolph or external options like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and Carson Wentz? And what does Paul think of some of the rule changes Rooney is voting for at the NFL owners meeting? Paul tackles those topics; the demotion of the Pirates’ David Bednar to the minor leagues; and news that star guard Jaland Lowe will be transferring from Pitt basketball after Jeff Capel once again failed to get the Panthers into March Madness. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes colleague Gerry Dulac with the latest from the NFL owners meetings in West Palm Beach, Fla. Why are the Steelers the talk of the town amid their protracted pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers via NFL free agency? What were Gerry's thoughts on comments made by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan about the situation over the weekend? Are they still trying to compete for playoff wins while stars including T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward on the roster? Or how much are they looking toward taking a QB in the 2026 NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions as well as possible rules changes that could be passed Tuesday and the potential for the Steelers' schedule to include meetings with lots of familiar faces. Could they see former players Kenny Pickett, Najee Harris and Justin Fields in a short span of time next season? And who might they face in their Dublin, Ireland game? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to the news that the team is calling up top prospect Thomas Harrington to start against the Rays. Is this going to be a long-term move, or just a spot start? And what should fans expect to see out of Harrington on Tuesday night in Tampa Bay? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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? 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 react to comments from Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin at NFL owners meetings over the weekend. Why do they not seem to be in any kind of rush to seal the deal with QB Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency? Does Rodgers' reported workout with Steelers WR DK Metcalf signal that a deal may be imminent? Or at least inevitable? What does it all mean for QB Mason Rudolph now that he's back under contract in Pittsburgh? And do positive comments about George Pickens signal that they team really believes in him for 2025 and beyond? Our duo tackles those topics, as well as the future of the running back position as the NFL draft looms. Should Khan pursue a marquee name to team with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield? Think an Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton? Or are there depth options like Quinshon Judkins, Kaleb Johnson and others who could fit just as well? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to the day in team news live around noon Eastern. Can manager Derek Shelton fix his team's sloppy mistakes from the season-opening series loss to the Miami Marlins over the weekend? What should he do about David Bednar and Colin Holderman, who've struggled in the bullpen early after issues in 2024? What should we make of Endy Rodriguez's first week at first base? And can Oneil Cruz correct some defensive gaffes in the outfield? Noah tackles those questions and more ahead of a series with the Tampa Bay Rays that begins Monday evening. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly NFL mock draft tracker podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo recap the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. -Do coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan have more needs than they can fill with this class, after trading their second-round pick for DK Metcalf earlier this month? -Why is Tyler Shough emerging as a serious option for the Steelers to slot in behind Mason Rudolph and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? -How seriously should we take coach Mike Tomlin's pro day dinner with Ohio State standouts Will Howard, Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson? -Should we play any attention to the growing mock draft momentum toward the Steelers selecting possible Day 1 QB options Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders? -Why is Walter Nolen a divisive figure in the mock daft world and how does he fit with the Steelers' needs compared to defensive tackles like Derrick Harmon and Kenneth Grant? -What are Ray's thoughts about Omarion Hampton and Jahdae Barron, who still consistently show up in Steelers mocks? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes former Pirates All-Star utility man Josh Harrison to talk about the start of the 2025 season and his memories with the team. How much does Josh still watch the Pirates? What is his relationship like with Andrew McCutchen, who's still leading the team at 38? What similarities does he see between this team -- led by names like Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds -- and the 2011-15 group that got the Pirates back to the MLB postseason? With names like Neil Walker, A.J. Burnett and Francisco Liriano leading the charge? Our duo tackles those topics as well as Josh's move into retired life. Why is he content with now doing the family life? What are his favorite Opening Day memories from his career? And how did he see the art of being a utility player in manager Clint Hurdle's clubhouse? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko weigh the team's QB options as another week of the wait for Aaron Rodgers comes to an end. Are there still viable QB alternatives after Russell Wilson signed with the New York Giants this week? Could free agent names like Joe Flacco, Drew Lock and Carson Wentz make sense above or below Mason Rudolph on the depth chart? And how closely should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be focused on NFL draft options including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart and Will Howard? Later, they discuss life for the Steelers if Rodgers ultimately signs. Could the QB clash with OC Arthur Smith like Wilson did? And in the final segment, our duo gives its thoughts on proposed NFL rule changes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How did Paul Skenes look in his first season-opening start? How did the bullpen situation playout with names including David Bednar, Colin Holderman and Denis Santana? Were Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, Andrew McCutchen, Ke'Bryan Hayes and the lineup able to get off to a productive start? And what did the guys think of manager Derek Shelton's decisions? 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.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles and sports columnist Jason Mackey stream LIVE from Miami ahead of the club's MLB Opening Day matchup with the Marlins at loanDepot Park. How will Paul Skenes look after a dominant spring training? What about the rest of the rotation -- which includes Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter, Carmen Mlodzinski and Andrew Heaney -- in the absence of the injury Jared Jones? Are Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen, Ke'Bryan Hayes, Bryan Reynolds and the offense prepared to take a step forward? And what will young players including Endy Rodriguez, Jack Suwinski and others prove in 2025? 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 their weekly podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey react to the Steelers' offseason moves so far. How do moves for names like DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell, Darius Slay and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers compare to GM Omar Khan's action in his first two seasons? Does this group compare well with the 2023 NFL free agency class that included Elandon Roberts, Larry Ogunjobi and Isaac Seumalo? Or the 2024 group that included Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Patrick Queen and DeShon Elliott? Will a lack of NFL draft picks naturally lead to a less bountiful offseason? And how should the stockpiling of compensatory picks for 2026 factor into this conversations? Later, the guys get into some college talk with Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia all stating spring practice. Are eyes on Drew Allar in Happy Valley as he looks to shake off a College Football Playoff loss to Notre Dame? Can he get the most out of a loaded roster that includes returnees such as Nick Singleton, Kaytron Allen and more? And are receiver transfers Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson enough to help the passing game as it loses Tyler Warren to the NFL? In Morgantown, what kind of difference can the return of coach Rich Rodriguez make? And can Eli Holstein, Desmond Reid and the Panthers emerge from mediocrity? Our duo tackles those questions. Then in the third segment, airing on the PG Pirates YouTube channel, Adam and Jason get into predictions for the Pirates and the MLB season. How many wins will manager Derek Shelton's club rack up? Can Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller and the pitching staff push them over the .500 mark? Or will the lineup led by Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds and Ke'Bryan Hayes continue to struggle like it has in years past? What should we make of Carmen Mlodzinski earning a rotation spot? How will the catching situation play out with Endy Rodriguez making the Opening Day roster and Henry Davis starting in Class AAA? And why haven't we hear from owner Bob Nutting this spring? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5:30 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Steelers coach Mike Tomlin dining with Ohio State Buckeyes stars Will Howard, Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson at the national champions' pro day? Are Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan paying extra attention to those guys as potential NFL draft picks? Where would Howard fit in a quarterback room with Mason Rudolph and — potentially — Aaron Rodgers? And could Henderson and/or Judkins could be a good replacement for Najee Harris alongside Jaylen Warren? Paul also talks quarterbacks after Russell Wilson signed with the New York Giants on Tuesday. What went wrong in the Steelers' relationship with him as their starter ahead of Justin Fields last season? Will he find more success in New York? And does this put more pressure on Khan and Tomlin to finish the deal with Rodgers? Then, later, Paul looks toward opening day on Thursday for the Pirates, as Paul Skenes, Andrew McCutchen, Oneil Cruz and Co. look to have their first winning season since 2018. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to Russell Wilson signing with the New York Giants in NFL free agency. Does the move make an eventual marriage between the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers inevitable, with one less possible destination available to him? How will Wilson perform in New York after mixed results this past season with the Steelers? How seriously might GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be about Mason Rudolph as a potential starting option if a deal with Rodgers doesn't work out? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: How does Wilson's move further solidify Khan's plans regarding compensatory NFL draft picks for 2026? Could the Steelers use that capital to reload their roster? Or potentially chase a top-level quarterback like Arch Manning via a trade? And how closely are Khan and Co. watching Ohio State prospects including Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins and Will Howard after attending the Buckeyes' pro day this week? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Are GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers having a better or worse NFL offseason than their AFC North rivals? How do the Steelers acquisitions of names including DK Metcalf, Darius Slay, Kenneth Gainwell and -- potentially -- Aaron Rodgers stack up with what the Browns have done in extending star pass rusher Myles Garrett? What about the Bengals and their key extensions for receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase? Or the Baltimore Ravens with WR DeAndre Hopkins? Paul tackles those topics, the reacts to the latest from Pirates spring training as they prepare to open their season Thursday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes New York Post Jets beat writer Brian Costello to figure out what's true and what's not about Aaron Rodgers' tenure with that team, as Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin pursue the QB in NFL free agency. Was Rodgers really a distraction for the Jets, as many believe because of his outspoken views beyond football? Or was he a better teammate than he's given credit for in a locker room with names like Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall and others? And how might he fit in a Steelers locker room that includes stars such as George Pickens, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and others? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the future of former Steelers QB Justin Fields in New York. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Is Aaron Rodgers a good potential fit with Steelers OC Arthur Smith's offense? How would it change compared to what we saw last season with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields behind center? And what impact will the acquisition of DK Metcalf to play across from George Pickens at receiver have on what Smith would like to do? Paul tackles those questions and more from around the sports world. What are his thoughts on the first weekend of March Madness, with mostly major-conference teams advancing? And what should we make of the Pirates' roster decisions announced so far -- including Endy Rodriguez making the team --ahead of Opening Day on Thursday? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles briefly discusses the team's 5-1 loss to the Twins in their final spring training contest Monday then gives his key takeaways as the team's opening day roster starts to take shape. Manager Derek Shelton informed reporters Monday morning that Carmen Mlodzinski will start the season as part of the Pirates' starting rotation. Is this just a quick fix in Jared Jones' absence or will Mlodzinski make the jump to being a starter full time? Speaking of Jones, how will his absence affect the team in the short term and — if necessary — the long term? Finally, who has the easiest path to the final roster spots, as six players — Peter Strzelecki, Hunter Stratton, Justin Lawrence, Joey Wentz, Ryan Borucki and Tanner Rainey — vie for three bullpen spots and three players — Jack Suwinski, Ji Hwan Bae and DJ Stewart — compete for the last two position-player spots? Noah answers 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 Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo weigh in on the team's continuing pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency. Have GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and top brass for team reached desperation for Rodgers to sign? Or is that need overstated? With Mason Rudolph already under contract and other free agent and trade options remaining, including Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco, Kirk Cousins and Joe Milton III? And with the likelihood of adding Rodgers eventually already fairly high, given his lack of other options? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the upside of NFL draft QBs. Will names including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Will Howard and Jalen Milroe ever be stars in the NFL? Or are they poised to be career backups? And how should that distinction figure into the Steelers' decision making? Then Chris and Ray end the show by talking safeties. How good will the Steelers' group -- led by Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott -- be after the signing of free agent Juan Thornhill? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insider Noah Hiles analyzes a couple opening day roster decisions, leading with Endy Rodriguez making the team as both a catcher and first baseman. Where will the once-top prospect ultimately fit in? Why did hard-throwing Kyle Nicolas NOT make the opening day roster? And does Jared Triolo have a new position to work with in center field? To read more about the roster moves, check out Noah's story here: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2025/03/23/pittsburgh-vs-blue-jays-rodriguez-nicolas/stories/202503230103 For more Pirates coverage, visit: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates Visit our sponsor, Greenawalt Roofing at https://greenawaltroofing.com/service-areas/pittsburgh-pennsylvania/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Steelers NFL mock draft tracker podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko recap the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. -Is Derrick Harmon of Oregon emerging as the new consensus first-round choice, as receivers like Emeka Egbuka, Matthew Golden and Luther Burden III fade following the DK Metcalf trade? And how does Harmon compare to other possible Day 1 options like Michigan's Kenneth Grant? -Why do RB Omarion Hampton and CB Jahdae Brown remain popular choices despite the Steelers signing Kenneth Gainwell and Darius Slay at their respective positions via NFL free agency? -What should we make of the volatile draft stock of QBs like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart? How realistic are they as Day 1 options for the Steelers as the drama swirling around Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson persists? -Will Alfred Collins be available as a potential late Day 2 option on the defensive line? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts to Paul Skenes' final MLB spring training start, in which he looked sharp in a loss to the Orioles. Is he ready to dominate with Opening Day looming this week and an injury to Jared Jones leaving question marks hanging over the rotation? Why is D.J. Stewart looking more comfortable at first base? And what can we expect from Hunter Stratton amid his return? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes fellow Post-Gazette columnist Gene Collier to talk through his career and all things Pittsburgh sports. What does Gene think of the Steelers' current waiting game with the enigmatic Aaron Rodgers? Would Russell Wilson or even Mason Rudolph be a better choice? And what about Justin Fields? Jason and Gene also talk about the great T.J. Watt and whether the Steelers should trade the superstar — or if they would ever even consider it. Gene and Jason also talk about their expectations for the Pirates as opening day quickly approaches and their differing opinions on how the season could go. The duo also talks about Gene's career; the difference in writing sports columns vs. political columns; his annual "Trite Trophy" column; how Gene developed his unique writing style; and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What is a realistic ceiling for the Steelers with QB Aaron Rodgers, should they sign him via NFL free agency after his visit to the team facility Friday? Could his take weapons including DK Metcalf and George Pickens to a playoff win? Or more? What is the worst-case scenario with Rodgers for coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and the team's top brass? Could Tomlin suffer his first losing season if Rodgers shows his age? Paul tackles those topics, then reacts to Robert Morris putting a scare into Alabama in the NCAA Tournament. How proud should the Colonials be of their season after winning the Horizon League for the first time and returning to March Madness for the first time since 2015? 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, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to a report from colleague Gerry Dulac that Aaron Rodgers is meeting with top brass including coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and owner Art Rooney II at the team's facility. Is a deal with the free agent QB imminent? Could he still take his time and ponder his options some more? And what could his potential move to Pittsburgh mean for the rest of the QB market, including names Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, Joe Flacco and others? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: How could this year's NFL draft QB class of names like Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Will Howard, Jalen Milroe and the others fit into the team's future? And what should we make of Najee Harris' criticism of the Steelers since signing with the Los Angeles Chargers last week? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.