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Mike DeFabo

@mikedefabo.bsky.social

2.6K followers 171 following 549 posts

Steelers beat writer at The Athletic.

Posts Replies Media

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 14h

The Steelers “hope” Joey Porter Jr. makes his debut on TNF. But will he? This week on The Yinziders, @jennaharner.bsky.social and I discuss the latest on this ongoing saga, how the offense got back on track and more. Plus @akronjackson.bsky.social joins us from Cleveland. youtu.be/23wg6CRwZ-o?...

Will Joey Porter Jr make his season debut for the Steelers against the Browns?

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Is it time for the Steelers to let Jaylen Warren take on a true ‘bell cow’ workload? Story unlocked and free to read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/764...

It’s time for Steelers to let Jaylen Warren take on a true ‘bell cow’ workload (Gift Article)

The running back was unstoppable as a runner and receiver while taking on an expanded role on Sunday.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Joey Porter Jr. was listed as a full participant for the first time under Mike McCarthy. 👀 Jalen Ramsey (wrist) and Brandin Echols (concussion) were limited. Rico Dowdle DNP.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

The offense that was promised when Mike McCarthy was hired finally came alive on Sunday. It says something about the play calling and execution that receivers were wide open on all three TD passes. www.nytimes.com/athletic/763...

How Mike McCarthy's promised offense finally came alive — the Steelers needed every point

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

The offense that was promised when Mike McCarthy was hired finally came alive. Free read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/763...

How Mike McCarthy's promised offense finally came alive — the Steelers needed every point

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

One stat to sum up every AFC North team, the players everyone is talking about in the division and my scheduling complaints. It's the AFC North Whiparound with @jeffzrebiecbot.bsky.social , @akronjackson.bsky.social and @pauldehnerjr.bsky.social. Free to read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/762...

AFC North Whiparound: Ravens' chances in Brazil; Browns go for second straight win

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Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Patrick Graham is evolving the Steelers defense with the way he deploys personnel, his pressure packages and his coverage philosophy. It’s not just zone vs man. It’s how they’re playing zone, which zones they choose and how they’re disguising. Free read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/762...

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

How good is this revamped Steelers defense under Patrick Graham? With or without Joey Porter Jr. on Sunday, we’re about to find out. Free read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/762...

How good is this Steelers defense without Joey Porter Jr.? The Bengals will show them (Gift Article)

After going up against shorthanded Falcons and Patriots offenses, the Steelers will face Joe Burrow for the first time since 2024.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

“You don’t say this about every tackle. There’s nice sets — and then there’s beautiful sets.” Aaron Rodgers talked up Max Iheanachor. Is it time to turn to the first-round pick? www.nytimes.com/athletic/762...

Aaron Rodgers talked up his 'beautiful set' — is it time for the Steelers to turn to Max?

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Mike McCarthy said WR Michael Pittman Jr. will practice in some capacity today.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

What's wrong with the Steelers' offense? This week on The Yinziders with @jennaharner.bsky.social, we discuss the OL breakdowns, DK's drops and more. Plus @pauldehnerjr.bsky.social joins us from Cincinnati to preview the Bengals game. youtu.be/cAVJntJpjFA?...

What’s wrong with the Steelers offense?

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

To sum up the current state of the Steelers, let’s start with the sacks. On one side, the Pats used pick pressures to manipulate the Steelers’ protection plan. On the other, Patrick Graham’s sim pressures and coverage disguises limited Drake Maye. www.nytimes.com/athletic/762...

What the sacks say about the current state of the Steelers on both sides of the ball (Gift Article)

Work to do for the Steelers' offensive line, and how the new defensive coordinator is creating pressure with his scheme.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

“Mike McCarthy needs to be better.” The head coach put the blame on his own shoulders, but the Steelers’ shortcomings go much deeper. How can Pittsburgh fix its floundering offense? Unlocked and free to read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/761...

How do the Steelers fix their floundering offense? ‘Mike McCarthy needs to be better’ (Gift Article)

From miscommunications to dropped passes, the Pittsburgh offense struggled on nearly every front in Sunday's 20-3 loss in New England.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Yesterday, the Steelers changed Joey Porter Jr.’s designation on the injury report from “back” to “non-injury/conditioning,” essentially declaring him healthy. Today, he left practice with a trainer. Has he effectively reset the clock? www.nytimes.com/athletic/760...

Joey Porter Jr. leaves practice with member of Steelers’ medical staff (Gift Article)

Porter missed the Week 1 game against the Falcons with what he and the team have described as the ongoing ramp-up from a back injury.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

“I’m not worried about DK at all, man,” Aaron Rodgers said. “I love DK. He’s one of my closest friends on the team, and I’m going to keep feeding him.” www.nytimes.com/athletic/760...

Who is worried about DK Metcalf’s Week 1 drops? Not Aaron Rodgers (Gift Article)

The star receiver struggled against the Falcons, but remains a focal point of the offense going forward.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

This week on The Yinziders with @jennaharner.bsky.social: • Where do Joey Porter Jr. and the Steelers go from here? • Noticeable changes under McCarthy in Week 1. • Alex Barth joins us from Boston for a scouting report on the Pats. • Zeke’s picks! m.youtube.com/watch?v=QNZS...

Where do the Steelers and Joey Porter Jr go from here?

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

What was different in Week 1 under Mike McCarthy? Here are five noticeable changes. Free link: www.nytimes.com/athletic/759...

Five ways Mike McCarthy and a new coaching staff changed the Steelers in Week 1

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Five ways Mike McCarthy and a new coaching staff changed the Steelers in Week 1 www.nytimes.com/athletic/759...

Five ways Mike McCarthy and a new coaching staff changed the Steelers in Week 1

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

The Mike McCarthy era begins today. ICYMI, I took a ride with the coach around Greenfield, where he feels his greatest source of pride and the tough reminders of the brother he lost. "In a lot of ways, this is for Joe." Free link: www.nytimes.com/athletic/746...

Exclusive: Mike McCarthy came home to Pittsburgh, his family and the grief he can’t escape

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

Joey Porter Jr. is INACTIVE for today's game, as his contract dispute reaches another level. Asante Samuel Jr. is in line to start opposite Jamel Dean at corner.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

What I’m seeing from the Steelers: A dozen thoughts ahead of kickoff. www.nytimes.com/athletic/758...

What I’m seeing from the Steelers: Fast start for Aaron Rodgers, 2 first-time Pro Bowlers (Gift Article)

Congratulations. If you’re reading this, you’ve made it through the Steelers’ third coaching change since 1969, an offseason of Aaron Rodgers’ indecision, the four-quarterback ...

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

GM Omar Khan and the Steelers have a history of taking negotiations down to the wire. T.J. Watt agreed 3 days before the ‘21 opener. Pat Freiermuth 2 days before in ‘24. Cam Heyward, the night before. Here they are again. “I don’t know why,” Cam said. Free read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/757...

With Joey Porter Jr., another Steelers contract negotiation comes down to the wire. Why? (Gift Article)

GM Omar Khan is once again taking a high-profile contract negotiation right down to the last minute.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

“If you want to be able to play with me, these are the things that you need to know,” Germie Bernard remembers Aaron Rodgers telling him. On the trust-building process that will define the rookie WR’s early-season success. www.nytimes.com/athletic/757...

Aaron Rodgers made it clear what Steelers rookie WR Germie Bernard needs to do (Gift Article)

The second-rounder from Alabama understands the unique position he is in.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

This week on The Yinziders with @jennaharner.bsky.social: • What to expect from the Aaron Rodgers/ Mike McCarthy offense • How the Steelers slow Bijan Robinson • Who fills in for DeShon Elliott? • Will JPJ get paid? • @joshkendall.bsky.social joins us from Atlanta youtu.be/LU2F2Vx0CPI?...

Steelers Week 1 preview: What to expect from the Mike McCarthy era

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Steelers first-round pick Max Iheanachor's home was burglarized on Aug. 26, the night before the preseason game in Buffalo. It's the latest in an unfortunate trend targeting pro athletes. @wtae4.bsky.social was the first to report the news. www.nytimes.com/athletic/757...

Steelers’ first-rounder Max Iheanachor’s Pittsburgh home burglarized: Source (Gift Article)

More than $150,000 in jewelry and bags was stolen, according to a report from WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

The AFC North Whiparound is back. This week, we’re discussing changes under the new coaches, summer surprises and unfinished business. www.nytimes.com/athletic/756...

How coaching changes are playing out for Steelers, Ravens and Browns (Gift Article)

Plus, the division's unmatched star power — and drama — at quarterback.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

This week on The Yinziders with @JennaHarner11: Joey Porter Jr. and the Steelers are running out of time. Will a deal get done? Plus, we discuss the surprises, omissions and injuries that produced the 53-man roster. youtu.be/D7SggYwTIc8?...

Steelers and Joey Porter Jr. running out of time to get a deal done + 53-man roster reaction

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Will Joey Porter Jr. play without a new contract? “For sure… maybe.” The Steelers and their talented, young DB have been in a state of uncertainty for months. With the critical deadline fast approaching, it’s time for both sides to make decisions. www.nytimes.com/athletic/755...

Will Steelers CB Joey Porter Jr. play without a new contract? ‘For sure… maybe’ (Gift Article)

The Steelers' top cornerback is still looking for a contract extension — and the team won't negotiate once the season starts.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Ranking the Steelers practice squad players based on their chances of contributing: www.nytimes.com/athletic/755...

Ranking the Steelers’ practice-squad players based on their chances of contributing (Gift Article)

A look at the Steelers' initial 14-man practice squad — one that doesn't include Elandon Roberts.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Four QBs. Two trades. Eleven rookies. And more than a few surprises. Let’s take a look at the Steelers’ initial 53-man roster: www.nytimes.com/athletic/755...

Steelers initial 53: Four QBs, Eli Heidenreich in; Joey Porter Jr. activated off PUP (Gift Article)

Breaking down the Steelers' surprising initial roster.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

The most disappointing part of the Kaleb Johnson era is that the 2025 running back class featured uncommon talent and depth. The Steelers used a third-round pick on one of the few RBs who wasn't immediately impactful. More on the trade: www.nytimes.com/athletic/755...

Packers acquire RB Kaleb Johnson in trade with Steelers (Gift Article)

The Packers add some insurance amid the possibility of a Josh Jacobs suspension.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

What went wrong for Broderick Jones and why he’s now a Cowboy: www.nytimes.com/athletic/754...

Cowboys add depth to line, acquire OT Broderick Jones from Steelers: Sources (Gift Article)

Jones never quite developed in Pittsburgh, but adds depth to a Dallas unit that needs it.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

The Steelers have released LB Jamin Davis and WR Levi Wentz, the team announced.

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Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

Four quarterbacks will make the 53. But will the Steelers’ star corner miss four games on PUP? As Sunday’s roster deadline nears, the uncertainty has shifted from QB to JPJ. www.nytimes.com/athletic/754...

Steelers 53-man roster projection: Four QBs, but the Joey Porter Jr. question lingers (Gift Article)

A look at how the Steelers' roster is shaping up with cut-down day looming.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

The Steelers are prepared to keep four QBs on their 53-man roster. But there’s still one important issue to watch ahead of Sunday’s 6 p.m. deadline. Free read: www.nytimes.com/athletic/754...

Steelers 53-man roster projection: Four QBs, but the Joey Porter Jr. question lingers

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Will Howard, Eli Heidenreich and the other Steelers on the fringe with the most to prove in the final preseason game. www.nytimes.com/athletic/754...

Eli Heidenreich, Will Howard and Steelers on the fringe entering preseason finale (Gift Article)

Predicting who will make the cut for Pittsburgh's 53-man roster.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

This week on The Yinziders with @jennaharner.bsky.social: • Can Joey Porter Jr. and the Steelers get through their “impasse?” • The pros and cons of carrying four QBs • The players on the roster's fringe with the most to prove in the final preseason game youtu.be/DjpsyASVmNo?...

Will the Steelers pay Joey Porter Jr. and should they keep four QB's?

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

So many questions in the Steelers’ QB room lead back to one player: Will Howard. The ripple effects of his performance will shape Mason Rudolph’s future, determine how many QBs the Steelers keep and impact players at other positions fighting for the 53. www.nytimes.com/athletic/752...

Will Howard is in the middle of the Steelers’ complicated QB equation (Gift Article)

The second-year QB will make his first NFL start in Friday's preseason game.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

In the Steelers’ complex QB equation, the key variable is Will Howard. He’s the player who could swing this entire conversation in one direction or the other, with possible ripple effects up and down the depth chart. www.nytimes.com/athletic/752...

Will Howard is in the middle of the Steelers’ complicated QB equation (Gift Article)

The second-year QB will make his first NFL start in Friday's preseason game.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Gennings Dunker left practice with a trainer during the open viewing window. He came back out without pads. Max Iheanachor is not in uniform today.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Mike McCarthy said Will Howard and Drew Allar will split the preseason game against the Jets. “I saw what I needed to see from Mason (Rudolph) last week.”

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Where do the key position battles stand as the Steelers break camp? www.nytimes.com/athletic/752...

Pittsburgh Steelers’ biggest depth-chart questions after three weeks of camp (Gift Article)

A look at the races for QB2, WR3, starting base inside linebacker and more.

Reposted by Mike DeFabo

Nick Baumgardner @nickbaumgardner.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Drew Allar Szn in Pittsburgh 👀 Good read from @mikedefabo.bsky.social www.nytimes.com/athletic/751...

Deep-diving Drew Allar’s Steelers debut: Quick decisions, mobility, staple concept execution (Gift Article)

A closer look at the film from Allar's impressive Thursday night performance.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

What did the film say about Drew Allar? Digging deeper into a promising preseason debut. (Free link): www.nytimes.com/athletic/751...

Deep-diving Drew Allar’s Steelers debut: Quick decisions, mobility, staple concept execution (Gift Article)

A closer look at the film from Allar's impressive Thursday night performance.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

At the end of last season, Will Howard took a minute to thank Aaron Rodgers for his mentorship.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Steelers stock report: Who is trending up and who is trending down ahead of the first preseason game? www.nytimes.com/athletic/750...

Roman Wilson’s rise, Rudolph impresses, where the rookies stand: Steelers stock report (Gift Article)

A look at who is trending up and who is trending down ahead of the preseason opener.

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

The Mike McCarthy QB school that helped develop Aaron Rodgers has some new students in Pittsburgh. A look at what makes McCarthy’s process unique and what it means for Will Howard and Drew Allar. www.nytimes.com/athletic/750...

Mike McCarthy's QB School developed Aaron Rodgers. In Pittsburgh, he has a new class

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

Today in the print edition of the @nytimes.com Mike McCarthy’s homecoming brings him back to the neighborhood he loves and the memories of the brother he lost.

Reposted by Mike DeFabo

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

This week on The Yinziders: What we’ve learned at training camp about Mike McCarthy, the young QBs, Max Iheanachor and more: youtu.be/kNgCIpRlocc?...

Steelers training camp: What we've learned about Mike McCarthy, the young QBs and more

YouTube video by The Yinziders

Mike DeFabo @mikedefabo.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

This week on The Yinziders: What we’ve learned at training camp about Mike McCarthy, the young QBs, Max Iheanachor and more: youtu.be/kNgCIpRlocc?...

Steelers training camp: What we've learned about Mike McCarthy, the young QBs and more

YouTube video by The Yinziders