Pulling the Strings

While the league is full of ego maniacs, or should we say control freaks, some teams like our Pittsburgh Steelers get it. An organization has to have designated staff with defined roles.

The present set up in Pittsburgh basically mirrors the philosophy they have maintained for years. They have the point man Kevin Colbert, the Director of football operations. He is the guy who will flip the switch. But Colbert recognizes this is not a one man show.

He has his wing man Ron Hughes who runs the college scouting department. Scouting is huge. Some teams rely to much on film and instinct. Hughes is heavily involved in setting up the draft board. Colbert also delegates the role of free agent scouting. Pro Personnel Coordinator Doug Whatley takes care of this.

Actually free agent assessment is often directly linked to your draft choices. If you make a key pick up at a need position, then you may alter your draft needs accordingly

Also in the loop is Head Coach Mike Tomlin who has input from the practical side of personnel.

It is no secret that the Pittsburgh Steelers work as a staff and follow a solid and defined game plan orchestrated by ownership. I believe as many do around the league that this is why they are consistent and successful.

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By Andy Natalie
ProFootball-fans.com Pittsburgh Steelers Correspondent