The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to build upon last year’s surprising postseason appearance.
However, they won’t proceed with longtime general manager Kevin Colbert anymore.
The longtime front office executive retired after the 2022 NFL Draft after 12 years as general manager.
He started in Pittsburgh in 2000 as their Director of Football Operations.
Afterward, he became general manager in 2010 and also became vice president in 2016.
During his tenure, he helped the Steelers win Super Bowls XL and XLIII.
Now that he is giving way for another general manager, drafting Kenny Pickett, George Pickens, DeMarvin Leal, and Calvin Austin is his parting gift for the Steelers.
Meanwhile, the Steelers also gave an update regarding their general manager search.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero tweeted that the team is bringing in Doug Whaley for a second interview for the open position.
Mike Garafolo announced days ago that the Tennessee Titans’ Ryan Cowden and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ John Spytek will also be interviewed.
A Quick Review Of Whaley’s Front Office Stint
Whaley worked as the Steelers’ pro personnel coordinator for ten years before becoming the Buffalo Bills’ general manager.
He worked with Colbert during his time in Pittsburgh and helped scout franchise stalwarts LaMarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons, and Troy Polamalu.
Then, he transferred to Buffalo in 2010 as assistant general manager and Director of Pro Personnel.
He became the general manager after his predecessor, Buddy Nix, stepped down in 2013.
He was relieved of his duties in 2017 after that year’s NFL Draft.
Whaley then joined the XFL as senior vice president for football operations.
Last November 2021, the 49-year-old executive was rehired as the league’s Senior Vice President of Player Personnel.
Whaley is also a Pittsburgh lifer, having attended high school at Upper St. Clair going to college at the University of Pittsburgh.
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