Ray Fittipaldo: Welcome and let's get started.
Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus: Do you see a wide receiver or two being signed in free agency? Would a guy like Sammy Watkins make sense? Or, even though he's 35, would Emmanuel Sanders be open to a second stint? It seems like they need at least another veteran to add to WR room in addition to whomever they might draft.
Ray Fittipaldo: I think the Steelers definitely will draft a WR and probably early. I could see them signing a veteran who could serve as a No. 3 or 4, but it doesn't have to happen right now. They just need a depth WR to be No. 4 or 5. Pat Freiermuth is going to take a jump this year and be a bigger part of the passing game. You have Johnson, Claypool and the draft pick. You don't need a big name. Just a reliable player to play 15-20 snaps a game assuming the draft pick can play early.
exiled in atlanta: There was a national report last week that CB Witherspoon had agreed to return to the Steelers on a two-year deal, but there's been nothing since. Was that an erroneous report?
Ray Fittipaldo: We reported Witherspoon is returning as well. So they have Witherspoon, Levi Wallace and Cam Sutton as their top 3 at the moment. But I can definitely see them adding to that group in the draft.
Joe: With the recent signings I feel like our biggest needs are in no particular order are DL WR and String safety. I feel like they could get a vet receiver before or after the draft cheap and draft one on day two. Which leaves safety and DL. My question is do they get a safety in FA or draft. I feel like the Steelers would want to get a safe
Ray Fittipaldo: I would agree, but drafting a strong safety depends on what happens with Terrell Edmunds. If they bring Edmunds back you can make an argument they don't need to draft a SS this year.
Joe: Chances Edmunds resigns before the draft?
Ray Fittipaldo: The longer he stays unsigned I think it's more likely he returns. He wants to see what his market is. There hasn't been much out there about his market so he might not be getting as many offers as he anticipated.
Joe: Are there any mid range vet receivers the Steelers may sign or will they wait to draft and then sign a cast off after the draft?
Ray Fittipaldo: I could see them waiting until after the draft. This is a good draft for WRs so they might want to see who they get before addressing the position in free agency.
Wayward: Ray, At what point due the Steelers, if ever, force Tuitt's had about returning or not? Does it change their draft dramatically knowing they still need to younger on the dline?
Ray Fittipaldo: The only thing we have heard since the season ended is Tuitt is "excited" about returning. I think if the Steelers were going to cut him they would have done it at the start of the new league year. I still think DL is a major need in this draft. Tuitt is in the final year of his deal as is Alualu. They need to develop some younger players.
GMan: Hi Ray. It appears DL will be the prime target for the Steelers in first round. If there is not a DL available they feel is worth taking in the first round, what position do you think they could target?
Ray Fittipaldo: Honestly, any position other than RB or TE. I think every other position on the team would be in play.
ev: Hi Ray, if Malik Willis is available in Round 2, will the Steelers take him? Reading articles here and there, Coach T seems to be enamored with him.
Ray Fittipaldo: Malik Willis isn't lasting until Round 2. Certainly not to the Steelers at No. 52.
Jay: Hello Ray. Could DB or WR be possible at pick 20? Given their draft history I hope they give Flores more input on DB. WR and RB seem to be devalued a bit to be round 1. I am not sold on Dan Moore or Chuks, I am still hoping for T at round 1 but understand the huge needs at S/CB and WR.
Ray Fittipaldo: Yes. I mentioned this on the Pod of Steel last week. A new set of scouting eyes on DBs in the form of Flores might be a good things for the Steelers. I think DB is certainly in play at No. 20 -- CB or S. And there should be some very good WRs available at No. 20. It's just a matter of deciding do you pull the trigger early or take advantage of the depth at the position later in the draft.
DALTER: Hi Ray, My thoughts are after what the Steelers got in free agency, they should go heavy on defense with their whole draft. I know they will need to draft a wide receiver but that would be my only offensive pick in the draft. My reason for this is the added Watson trade to the Browns. We already know what Baltimore and Cincy has. I think the offense might be good enough.....I would love to see a dominant defense. Your thoughts and what position do you think the Steelers will take at #1?
Ray Fittipaldo: My educated guess right now is defense, but I won't rule out WR or OL.
Yates: Hi Ray/. WR depth in draft is good. Based on free agent moves which position of need for Steelers do you predict will present highest value for 20th pick?
Ray Fittipaldo: It all depends on what happens with the first 19 picks, but my guess is there will be a good defender available for the Steelers at No. 20.
MrSamsonite: Hi Ray. The interior of the OL was addressed through free agency. Do you think Tackle will be addressed early in the draft, in addition to needs at safety and DL?
Ray Fittipaldo: Not sure about early now since they re-signed Chuks and are paying him like a starter, even though it's basically a series of one-year deals. This is a good draft for OL so maybe they take advantage of the depth and draft a developmental player who can eventually be Chuks' replacement rather than a first-round guy who would probably play right away. They could still take a tackle in Round 1 and have him play the left side. That would mean Dan Moore becomes your swing tackle.
Next Coach: Thinking seems to be that the recent FA signings are meant to bolster Steeler prospects more in 2023 than the upcoming season. Most of the contracts are easily voidable with lots of savings if things don’t work out so maybe this is correct. Agree or disagree?
Ray Fittipaldo: Mostly agree although I think Daniels is a guy who will be here long term. But the others? Yeah, it will depend on how they play.
Gene: Do you think the Steelers still draft a OT in round 1 or 2 ?
Ray Fittipaldo: I think they'll draft an OL, but I don't think it has to be in the first or second round after the moves they made.
Greg: If Mason Rudolph is Neil O'Donnell as Gerry says, then who do you see is similar to Mitch Trubisky? I've never actually watched one of his games to see his playing style, etc
Ray Fittipaldo: He's more athletic and can make some plays with his feet. Some say the best-case scenario for him is he could be the next Ryan Tannehill, who also was a failed first-round pick who found a second life with Tennessee. Tannehill hasn't led the Titans to a Super Bowl, but they've been pretty darn good the past few years. He has a good team around him, of course. But that wouldn't be a bad scenario if you ask me.
Soggy: Good Day Ray. The Steelers have roughly $20 million left in cap space, do you see them spending additional $'s on FA prior the draft, or holding onto money until after the draft to fill in any remaining holes post draft?
Ray Fittipaldo: Need some $ for the draft class and then to fill in some holes. Plus, GMs like to have some flexibility for on-season moves.
Tom M.: Rod Woodson made a successful transition to safety later in his career. I’m wondering if Haden could do the same? He’s probably lost a step but he still has good tackling skills and has good “football smarts”.
Do you think he could make that switch and if so, would the Steelers be interested in him as a safety?
Ray Fittipaldo: He's definitely smart enough and savvy enough to make the move, but I don't know if he'd fit with the Steelers. Haden wouldn't be a strong safety and they have Minkah at free.
Luis: ray Ty 4 chats. 3WR on roster right now. Do they add piece through FA?
Ray Fittipaldo: They could, but the more important move is selecting one in the draft.
Lloyd's 3-Count: Do you have any John Clayton anecdotes?
Ray Fittipaldo: I shared one on Twitter Friday night. He used to call the Steelers press room every Friday to get an update on injuries. He called the same time every week. I imagine he did the same to 31 other beat reporters around the league. He was known for outworking people.
Lloyd's 3-Count: Seems like every team in AFCN has improved their rosters so far. Any thoughts on other teams' moves?
Ray Fittipaldo: Not just the North, but the entire AFC is going to be extremely competitive.
SteelByDesign: I think there's a good chance the Steelers select a WR early. But do you think they bring someone in too so they're not forced to reach? That room looks pretty thing.
Ray Fittipaldo: Probably but sometimes you can get those types of guys after the draft, too.
Lou: Hi Ray. What's your take on PFF numbers? I see on this very site PFF numbers mentioned all the time...like how the new guys aren't very impressive there. Then again the news vibe is that the Steelers made big improvements. But not by PFF standards. So....have the Steelers just moved some chairs around and in the end they will all break like last year
Ray Fittipaldo: I don't put a lot of stock in PFF grades. I watch the games myself and make my own determinations.
DoylestownDewy: What’s up Ray? First all, how’s it feel to be the only RayRay left in The ‘Burgh? OG Ray holdin it down lol…my question: Does Anthony Miller have a chance?
thanks for the chats
Ray Fittipaldo: That's something we haven't mentioned. Miller spent last season on the practice squad. He could be part of the WR equation as well.
Chris I.: Hello Ray, if you had to guess, what would be the chances the Steelers take Pickett or Willis if either was available at 20 (and assuming J. Davis is gone)? Also, do you think the Steelers have any interest in B. Mayfield if the price were right? Thanks so much.
Ray Fittipaldo: First of all, I'd be shocked if either are there at No. 20. But if they were the Steelers would have to make a tough decision.
Matt P Venice FL: Hi Ray, Drake London, Jordan Davis, Andrew Booth or Dax Hill (WR, CB, NT, SS). Who would you take in the first round? Seems we have set ourselves up to draft the best avail prospect w/our FA signings...
Ray Fittipaldo: I'd lean toward defense... and my mock 3.0 is coming out Thursday morning online and in print.
Ray Fittipaldo: Gerry wrote this piece last week https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2022/03/18/pittsburgh-ste...
Mark: The PG writers have written rather little about the Myles Jack pickup. Curious if there’s a reason why? Seems like a very good/ outstanding addition to me, but the lack of coverage about him is leading me to think its not as great.
Ray Fittipaldo: Question to previous answer...
Daniel: Hi Ray, If the Steelers want to win this year, why draft QB Willis who will need 1~2 year to fine tune his skills? I would much rather draft CB Booth or WR Williams/Olave. What would you do?
Ray Fittipaldo: QB is the most important position on any football team. If you don't have a franchise QB you're always looking for the next one.
me again: Ray, In one of your mock drafts you had the Steelers taking Kenyon Green with their first pick. Given their FA moves, if KG was there at 20 would you still take him? Unless Jordan Davis is also there at 20 I would still pick KG.
Ray Fittipaldo: After signing Daniels and Cole and with Dotson and Green on the roster there are a lot of numbers with interior OL. So I'd say no to Green now.
ThisGuy: I'm not a college football fan, and certainly have no knowledge on the strength of the draft class, but why is nobody listing C as a possible draft priority? I understand we signed Cole, but are we sure that's a big step up from KG?
Ray Fittipaldo: It's definitely a possibility. Tyler Linderbaum from Iowa might be there, too.
ThisGuy: Assuming they draft DL within the first 3 rounds, if Tuitt commits to coming back then Wormley would probably be cut, correct?
Ray Fittipaldo: Not necessarily. He had a career high six sacks last season. I agree they would have lots of bodies there, but they could work that out.
Elbie Nickel: Ray-Many thanks for you thorough and incisive chats and other pieces. I read A Bittners piece on PFF grades on our "newbies".Not very encouraging. Reminds me that we are getting players unwanted by another team. Your thoughts ?
Ray Fittipaldo: I would say watch some games for yourself and make the call yourself. What did people do before PFF? Lol.
Long way from New Castle: Colbert and Tomlin reportedly attending the Malik Willis pro day. I keep thinking that we go DL and WR in the draft but where there is smoke there is fire?
Ray Fittipaldo: They go to lots of pro days. You'll see pictures of them at another pro day this week and next week as well.
Turk in MD: Hi Ray. Thanks for the chats and podcasts. Do you like Jordan Davis or Malik Willis for the Steelers #1 pick?
Ray Fittipaldo: Check post-gazette.com Thursday morning.
Mike-EE: Ray, assuming the Bengals repeat as AFC North champs, how much stock do you give the Steelers in picking up one of three wild card spots in a very competitive conference
Ray Fittipaldo: Don't assume the Bengals will repeat. They were 10-7 last season, a half game better than the Steelers. I like Joe Burrow and his skill players, but it's not like they were a juggernaut last season.
Guest: What if Pickett was there at 20 and we passed on him for Jordan Davis and he turned out to be the next Gabe Rivera?
Ray Fittipaldo: I feel like every Steelers fan is going to utter this exact thought at least once between now and April 28.
Mike from DC: Although the Steelers are good at developing WRs in the later rounds, it seems ever since AB left they’ve had a bunch of #2 guys and no #1 receiver. Might be time to pick one early if the Georgia DTs are gone?
Ray Fittipaldo: It's a possibility. But there have been plenty of first-round WRs who never lived up to the hype, too.
Jim: I prefer Wyatt over Davis, remember big Dan? Never lived up to the hype.
Ray Fittipaldo: Big Dan was a sixth-round pick so not sure there was ever a lot of hype.
Hersh M: Why is everyone so hyped for Myles Jack when Schoebert had equal expectations last year when we signed him and then he disappointed
Ray Fittipaldo: Jack is younger and a better athlete. I think there is more upside there.
John P: Estimated numbers to bring Edmunds back?
Ray Fittipaldo: $5 million or less. And I'm not even sure they'd want spend $5 million.
Greg: Can we just assume that Justin Layne is done?
Ray Fittipaldo: You ca assume he's on the roster for special teams and that's about it.
Hersh M: Who do you like as fit for us at wr between Cole beasley, aj green, watkins, jarvis landry or another vet
Ray Fittipaldo: Beasley would be good, but he comes with some baggage from last season. Landry would be fine, but I think he'd cost too much.
MG: Basically I think the Steelers can't go wrong if their first round strategy is Best Available Defensive Player from Georgia. Agree?
Ray Fittipaldo: That might be a great plan!
Hersh M: Do you think Chuks was overpaid
Ray Fittipaldo: I guess it's the going rate for a starting right tackle, but it does feel like they overpaid, yes.
Cartman: JuJu's mother noted her sadness in the Steelers no longer having interest in keeping him this year. I would have thought otherwise given the lack of talent they have at WR. Were they really not interested in bringing him back? Seems true giving how little he got from KC.
Ray Fittipaldo: I just think they want some new talent in the WR room. Tomlin was upset about how the entire group performed last season. They need some new blood in that room.
Hersh M: Is our starting lineup from left to right on OL the following? Moore-Daniels-Cole-Doston-Chuks?
Ray Fittipaldo: If they had to play a game right now, probably. And the guard could be flip-flopped.
Mike-EE: Is there any possibility Dwayne Haskins wins the quarterback competition? I think he has the best arm of the three
Ray Fittipaldo: Highly doubt it.
Hersh M: But they improved their OL so they should be a juggernaut now
Ray Fittipaldo: Well, let's see how they perform as they hunted.
Ray Fittipaldo: Don't get me wrong. I think the Bengals are going to be good, but let's not crown their ass (Dennis Green voice)
On The Road: I say sign B Mayfield and let each QB play a quarter. Start a new trend in the NFL.
Ray Fittipaldo: Just institute the messenger quarterback. A new signal caller every play!
Mike-EE: Other than Ryan Tannenbaum, have you ever heard of a high first round quarterback getting a second life on a new team?
Ray Fittipaldo: Jim Plunkett.
Hersh M: Why is there so much hype around Mason Cole? Isnt he a backup level player
Ray Fittipaldo: Not sure there is a lot of hype around him. I think the assumption is he'll start based on the contract he signed. He signed for more than $15 million over three years. That's great money if he turns out to be a backup.
Steelercity Arkansas: whats the deal with Ebron?
Ray Fittipaldo: He's a free agent coming off an ACL.
bpcoach: Hi Ray. It's been an ongoing discussion on Steeler chats. What's your opinion on the Steelers not signing a Strong Safety at this point?
Ray Fittipaldo: Maybe they're waiting to see what happens with Edmunds.
Mike-EE: Your thoughts on Deshaun Watson going to the Browns? Will it be great or a huge disappointment and distraction?
Ray Fittipaldo: There will be some bad PR the organization has to handle, but on the field he's a good player. We don't know how long he'll be suspended. And the cap hits from 2023 though 26 are astronomical. So they better win soon. It's going to be hard to keep a competitive team around him.
wil: A reporter in Cleveland says Pittsburgh would snap up Mayfield if he is cut by Browns. If true, would he be Steelers starter?
Ray Fittipaldo: Nonsense.
Jacob: They're always appreciated. Why so many two year deals? For someone like Mitch, I get it. They may only need him for that long if we get a QB in the draft, but for just about everyone else we've signed, it's been to two year contracts. Why?
Ray Fittipaldo: I think a lot of these guys are still in prove-it mode. Why commit to a long-term deal when a guy has never been in your building?
SteelByDesign: If this team drafts a QB do you think they'll try and trade Mason?
Ray Fittipaldo: Depends if he wants to be traded.
On The Road: The four QB system. Who would be your "closer?"
Ray Fittipaldo: Whoever throws the hardest. I got Haskins.
Vegas Steeler: Hi Ray, with the change in QB and the higher than usual amount in cap space for free agency, how has reporting on the offseason been this year for you compared to the past years? I imagine some extra excitement or something but I assume us fans can get you all worked up anyways.
Ray Fittipaldo: They've certainly been more active, but I know I predicted they would be. With so many holes on their roster they had to sign some guys.
Jacob: Taking the big name & the fun thoughts of a potential playmaker, scheme-wise, does it make sense to sign Honey Badger?
Ray Fittipaldo: He's a good player. And you find ways to make it work if you sign him. But I'm not sure they have the $$$ left to sign him. I mean, they have it. But how much money do you want to spend on safeties?
VAyinzer: Hi Ray, while I feel that Devonte Wyatt will be gone before the Steelers pick, what are your thoughts on him as a fit in the Steelers system? While he is certainly talented, he seems to lack the height/length that the Steelers typically look for when drafting DL. Thanks so much.
Ray Fittipaldo: Yeah he's more of a 3-technique. I suppose he could play 5-technique, but he's not an exact fit for the Steelers scheme. He fits in sub, but probably not in base.
First Published: March 22, 2022, 4:45 p.m.
