The search for a new general manager in Pittsburgh has led the team to Louis Riddick. The ESPN analyst is scheduled for an interview (Twitter link via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network).
[Related: Steelers Interview Three GM Candidates]
The 52-year-old began his front office career as a scout in Washington in 2001. He spent seven years there, then an additional six with the Eagles. The final four seasons of that time, in which he was Philadelphia’s director of pro personnel, represent his most senior job title. He has been out of the NFL since 2013, most recently working as an analyst on Monday Night Football. Last offseason, though, he received GM interest from the Lions, Texans and Jaguars.
A Pennsylvania native, Riddick played college football at Pitt, so he would certainly represent a hometown candidate to replace Kevin Colbert. He will be the fourth external candidate to interview for the role, though there are no details on when the sit-down will take place.
Here is where the Steelers’ GM search stands so far:
- Ryan Cowden, vice president of player personnel (Titans): Interviewed by 2/4
- Ed Dodds, assistant general manager (Colts): Interviewed by 2/4
- Omar Khan, vice president of football and business administration (Steelers): Mentioned as candidate
- Louis Riddick, former director of pro personnel (Eagles): Scheduled to interview
- JoJo Wooden, director of player personnel (Chargers): Interviewed by 2/4
Riddick would be a great fit for the Steelers
OK now this is interesting. I’ve been thinking that they have been just going through the motions and would promote from within (Hunt and/or Khan)… but maybe not?
I think that you forgot to include Hunt.
Have they ever “officially” interviewed either Hunt or Khan? Or officially said that either or both are candidates? The general assumption is that they are and that both would welcome the promotion, but have we heard from either of them? Honestly asking.
I like to watch Riddick for his viewpoints. I liked watching Mike Mayock, too. Just not real sure how his work as an analyst translates to such a position
Riddick has actually worked as a scout and personnel executive for NFL teams, while Mayock was strictly a media guy after playing. Hardly a guarantee he’ll be a great GM, but Mayock didn’t have nearly the relevant experience Riddick does.
Oddly enough, both have Pittsburgh connections. Riddick played his college ball for Pitt, and Mayock was drafted by the Steelers although he never played in the regular season for them. And both played safety if I remember right.
But you’re right, Riddick is far more experienced and qualified than Mayock was. I too think Riddick does a fine job for ESPN. Unlike some “insiders” with Riddick I get the sense that he actually has first-hand knowledge of what he’s saying, and isn’t just relying on rumor and hearsay. He’s effective at communicating his point without jargon or talking down to his audience. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s kept a lot of contacts from his days working in front offices. I also wouldn’t be surprised if he gives a great interview and gives the Steelers something to think about. I’d honestly like to see him with the Steelers in some capacity, while hopefully still keeping Hunt and Khan.
Agree 100%. Just another facet of what will be an interesting off season in terms of addressing myriad issues.
In this particular case, I will be interested to see if the new GM has any real role in the draft beyond observer. With Khan or Hunt, one would imagine that their views are in keeping with the Steelers SOP. To me—especially with what’s been reported here—Riddick offers some much needed fresh air in the years to come
His credentials with other teams while in management as a scout and in player personnel kinda speaks for itself. He’s as qualified as any GM candidate out there
riddick has been looked at for a lot of jobs hes either picky unlucky or not a great interview
Of course when MNF finally has a good crew, would miss his analysis
It would be a great move if they can get this big mouth off the air at ESPN.
Of coarse they are!