The Steelers Preview: Has Omar Khan Earned the Crown as Best Steelers GM?

Steel Curtain Network: A Pittsburgh Steelers podcast1h 0mApril 9, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Steel Curtain Network podcast dives into the evolving role of Omar Khan as the Pittsburgh Steelers' general manager, questioning whether he has earned the title of 'best' in the franchise's modern history. Hosts Jeff Hartman, Brian Davis, and Dave Schofield debate Khan's aggressive yet deliberate drafting style, contrasting his tenure with past GMs like Kevin Colbert, Tom Donahoe, and Dick Haley. While acknowledging Khan's bold moves—such as the Chase Claypool trade and securing Joey Porter Jr.—they remain cautious about crowning him the best, citing the lack of playoff success and the need for more time to evaluate his full impact. The discussion shifts to the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, held in Pittsburgh, where the hosts debate whether the Steelers would trade away their first-round pick despite a lucrative offer, ultimately concluding that PR concerns and fan expectations would likely prevent such a move. The episode closes with excitement over the upcoming Steel Curtain Network Draft Party in Hagerstown, Maryland, featuring memorabilia giveaways including a T.J. Watt autographed jersey and an autographed JPJ mini helmet, along with trivia and fan engagement.

Key Takeaways
1

Omar Khan's drafting strategy is deliberate and patient, not purely aggressive, with a focus on long-term roster construction.

2

Despite bold trades, the Steelers have yet to win a playoff game under Khan, making it too early to crown him the best GM in franchise history.

3

The Steelers are unlikely to trade out of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft due to the event being held in Pittsburgh and the importance of fan perception.

4

The team’s front office continues to operate with traditional Steelers methods, including avoiding void years and managing salary cap space conservatively.

5

The upcoming Steel Curtain Network Draft Party in Hagerstown, MD, will feature exclusive giveaways and live fan engagement, with a focus on community and celebration.

Chapters
0:00
2 min

The Night That Never Ends

The episode opens with a poetic ad for Meinl Schmidt Distillery, setting a reflective tone about meaningful moments and human connection.

2:00
8 min

Is Omar Khan the Best Steelers GM?

They haven't had that many. That's what's crazy is he just rattled them off like that. That's it, you know?

Highlight
10:00
10 min

The Role of the GM vs. Coach

The panel explores the division of responsibility between the GM and head coach, with Dave arguing that the GM bears significant responsibility for roster construction, while Jeff emphasizes the importance of context and timing.

20:00
10 min

Aggression vs. Patience in Drafting

I would like to combine both of those. The reason I say that he... basically you could call him the gambler, call him Kenny Rogers. He knows when to hold them, knows when to fold them and knows when to pick your pocket.

Highlight
30:00
10 min

The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh: PR vs. Performance

You just can't, I mean, you can't do that to the fans. And I know you don't run your organization for the fans, but not when the draft is in your house.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I would like to combine both of those. The reason I say that he... basically you could call him the gambler, call him Kenny Rogers. He knows when to hold them, knows when to fold them and knows when to pick your pocket.
Brian Davis16:34
Viral: 85.0
You just can't, I mean, you can't do that to the fans. And I know you don't run your organization for the fans, but not when the draft is in your house.
Brian Davis23:17
Viral: 80.0
If you have an opportunity to do something that's best for the team, do it.
Brian Davis52:09
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

Jeff HartmanBrian DavisDave Schofield
Topics Discussed
Omar Khan's Legacy as Steelers GM90%NFL Draft Strategy and Trading Back85%Fan Perception and Public Relations80%Front Office Accountability75%Steelers Draft Party in Hagerstown70%GM vs Coach Responsibility65%Conspiracy Theories in Draft Picks60%Salary Cap Management55%
People & Brands

Pittsburgh Steelers

other

60xPositive

Omar Khan

person

45xPositive

Steel Curtain Network

media

25xPositive

Mike Tomlin

person

22xPositive

Kevin Colbert

person

18xMixed

2026 NFL Draft

other

16xPositive

Art Rooney II

person

14xNeutral

Joey Porter Jr.

person

12xPositive

Chase Claypool

person

8xPositive

Crawford's Gifts

brand

8xPositive

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