Speculation from a Pittsburgh source

[Mr. Scot]

Florio also cited Bouchette around the time of the article.

Quote

The Steelers unquestionably have become excellent at finding talent. The man primarily responsible for doing so could be taking his talents elsewhere next year.

As explained by Ed Bouchette of TheAthletic.com, Colbert didn’t get an extension on the same day coach Mike Tomlin received his latest new deal. Bouchette adds that Colbert has told the team he prefers to go year to year.

That approach gives both sides flexibility; the Steelers can move on with minimal financial cost, and Colbert can walk away for a better offer or a change of scenery.

It’s hard to imagine either side wanting one. Colbert, who perhaps doesn’t get the credit he deserves because he’s quiet and understated, has done a great job for the Steelers. And Pittsburgh seems to be the perfect place for him.

Unless, of course, former Steelers minority owner David Tepper is thinking about making Colbert an offer he can’t refused in order to lure him to Charlotte.

Kevin Colbert inches toward GM free agency

That second line makes me wonder about the relationship between Colbert and Tomlin again

[Bartin]

7 hours ago, Mr. Scot said:

Not the entire time. Colbert drafted Roethlisberger in 2004.

I don't even remember who they had the previous seasons. Might have been Kordell Stewart but I don't think he was still there when they drafted Roethlisberger.

I know Bill Cowher didn't want to use a first round pick on a quarterback but Colbert either talked him into it or overruled him (don't really know which).

Tommy Maddox iirc

[Mr. Scot]

6 minutes ago, Bartin said:

Tommy Maddox iirc

Wasn't Charlie Batch in there somewhere?

[Bartin]

14 minutes ago, Mr. Scot said:

Wasn't Charlie Batch in there somewhere?

I think he was just one of the backups and started games while Ben was suspended and injured. I’m 99% sure that Maddox was at least the guy Ben replaced in week 2 or 3 of his rookie year.

[Mr. Scot]

One other dot to connect (or layer of tinfoil to wrap, whichever you prefer)

Remember that when Tepper first came to the Panthers, he was said to have reached out to people he trusted in the Steeler organization for opinions on Ron Rivera and Marty Hurney.

Those people? Omar Khan and Kevin Colbert.

I've also been trying to find what Khan's contract status is for next season but had no luck.