In a recent NFL agent survey, insightfully reported by The Athletic‘s Ben Standig, 30 agents were asked their perspectives on dozens of topics. One of them was who to watch as a future general manager and, not surprisingly, Omar Khan’s name came up.
Khan, known as the Steelers contract guru, has meticulously handled a multitude of responsibilities since joining the Steelers. His strategic approach to contract negotiations and salary cap wizardry has been vital in keeping the Steelers competitive over the years.
Since 2001, Khan, 43, has ascended the Steelers front office ladder from football administration coordinator to director of football administration and was promoted to vice president of football and business administration in 2016.
It’s clear that Khan has been groomed to be a general manager; however, it may wind up being somewhere outside of Pittsburgh. He has been linked to other GM opportunities with the Seahawks, Rams, Dolphins and Jets but has remained loyal to the Steelers.
Although Colbert has desired year-to-year contracts with the Steelers, he shows no signs of stepping down. His current contract takes him through the 2021 season.
Pro scouting coordinator Brandon Hunt has actually been hinted at as the favorite to succeed Colbert. Entering his 10th season, Hunt was interviewed by the Eagles in 2016 for their director of player personnel.
Whoever does replace Colbert down the line will have tremendously big shoes to fill.
