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Between the Tackles
Between the Tackles
Author: Eric "Burg" Burgess, Manish Mehta
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© 2025 Burg, Joe, and Manish
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Welcome to Between The Tackles podcast. Join Eric “Burg” Burgess and NFL reporter Manish Mehta for insightful, behind-the-scenes conversations from across the NFL with players, coaches, general managers and media personalities. Like, Subscribe, and Follow @tacklespod on X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok!
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Pete Prisco is a CBS Sports senior NFL columnist and analyst for CBS Sports HQ with decades of experience covering the league. Prisco (@PriscoCBS on X) provides a deep dive on the 2026 NFL Free Agency frenzy, including his annual informative story on his Top 100 NFL Free Agents on CBSSports.com (https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/pete-priscos-top-100-nfl-free-agents-for-2026/) .
Eric “Burg” Burgess and Manish Mehta leave no stone unturned during this entertaining episode filled with soon-to-be overpaid busts, the best bargains in this free agent class and a closer look at football trade talks involving disgruntled stars like Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown and Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
Prisco leans on his institutional football knowledge and intel from talking to NFL scouts, general managers, executives and coaches to give a comprehensive look at the 2026 NFL free agent class.
EPISODE DETAILS:
(1:45): Forget about recognizable veteran free-agent players like Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, Buffalo Bills pass rusher Von Miller, Los Angeles Chargers pass rusher Khalil Mack, Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker, Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Philadelphia Eagles pass rusher Jaelan Phillips. Prisco’s explains why Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum is his No. 1 free agency in the 2026 class, what his market value is and which teams will target him to bolster its offensive line. Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears appear to be an ideal fit. Will Prisco hit a home run like he did before 2025 NFL Free Agency when he had former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold as his top free agent?
(3:00): Who are some of the most overrated free agents in this class? Prisco believes that aging players Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell and Saints linebacker Demario Davis might be more name than game at this stage of their careers.
(4:00): Prisco explains why Packers quarterback Malik Willis is the most overrated player in the 2026 NFL Free Agent class despite NBC football analyst Chris Simms’ belief that Willis will be a steal. Prisco makes a case that former Arizona Cardinals signal caller Kyler Murray would be a better option for quarterback-needy NFL teams.
(4:45): Prisco waxes poetic about Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jalen Watson as possibly the best bargain in free agency. How critical is a free agent’s age when stacking his appeal?
(7:00): Is Kyler Murray destined to the Minnesota Vikings? Murray’s apparent desire to play with perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver Justin Jefferson -- and on a team with a defense led by Brian Flores -- makes sense. But do the Vikings want him? Prisco also wonders if head coach Kevin O’Connell is a quarterback whisperer, why didn’t he do a better job with quarterback J.J. McCarthy?
(7:55) Prisco mentions a darkhorse team for Murray’s services: The Indianapolis Colts. Would general manager Chris Ballard be better off adding Murray for cheap instead of paying a larger freight for the injured Daniel Jones, who received the transition tag?
(9:00) What will Aaron Glenn, new offensive coordinator Frank Reich, Darren Mougey and the New York Jets brass do at quarterback? Prisco discusses the benefits of tanking the 2026 season and drafting a quarterback from a deep 2027 NFL Draft class.
(10:50) Owner Robert Kraft, head coach Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots went to the Super Bowl after spending a lot of money in free agency last season. So, what will they do for an encore? Prisco believes Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce would be a great fit, but will he be worth the inflated price tag? He’s definitely in the same class as Ja’Marr Chase, JSN or Loa Angeles Rams star Puka Nacua. How much money is too much money for him?
(12:00) Should the Patriots just trade for Philadelphi Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown, who seemingly want to be reunited with Vrabel after playing for him with the Tennessee Titans?
(13:30): Is Howie Roseman making a mistake if he trades away A.J. Brown? In a standoff between Brown and former Super Bowl MVP quarterback Jalen Hurts, who would you keep? Prisco offers his evaluation on Hurts as a player and why moving Brown probably would be the right decision.
(15:30): Which Eagles defensive players set to hit free agency should Roseman keep: passer Jaelan Phillips, linebacker Nakobe Dean or safety Reed Blankenship? Prisco offers a blunt assessment.
(16:50): Which player will be the steal of this free agent class when we look back in a few years? Prisco heaps high praise on Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook and Seattle Seahawks defensive back Coby Bryant.
(19:00) The guys wrap up relaying Prisco’s assessment of the Maxx Crosby drama that Tom Brady, Klint Kubiak and the rest of the Las Vegas Raiders brass is dealing with now. Would Prisco trade for the veteran All-Pro pass rusher?
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Samir Suleiman is a former Vice President in the NFL, who worked for nearly three decades for the league office, Jacksonville Jaguars, St. Louis Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers. Suleiman has had an incredible depth and breadth of knowledge of the business side of football and the X’s and O’s given his diverse background negotiating high-profile contracts, navigating the ever-changing salary cap and engaging on the pro scouting side of the NFL universe.
Episode Highlights:
(2:45): What should Tom Brady, Klint Kubiak and the Las Vegas Raiders do with disgruntled Pro Bowl pass rusher Maxx Crosby? What would be a fair trade package for him?
(3:15): Suleiman shares a fun behind-the-scenes story of former Steelers All-Pro wide receiver Antonio Brown during a tumultuous time.
(4:35) Is it smart business for Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman to trade star wide receiver A.J. Brown or should he keep quarterback Jalen Hurts’ top weapon? And what would be a fair trade compensation for Brown? Should Roseman hold out for what the New York Jets received for defensive lineman Quinnen Williams when they made a deal with Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys before the trade deadline last season?
(7:25) Will the NFL penalize the New England Patriots and Mike Vrabel for tampering after the head coach admitted at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last week that he regularly texts Brown?
(8:30) What is the biggest misconception about NFL Free Agency? Do NFL fans think Madden and fantasy football are real life?
(11:00) How do NFL teams set a free agency budget? Who creates it? How much wiggle room is there to maneuver? How does Oliver Twist enter the analysis?
(13:35): Debunking the NFL salary cap myth. What does “cash over cap” really mean?
(15:00) Which NFL team has been historically cheap when paying free agents?
(17:15): Will the NFL salary cap reach a half billion dollars soon? A mention of Stephen Ross selling one percent of the Miami Dolphins, which has a valuation of $12.5 billion.
(18:15): The art of the negotiation during free agency, tricks used by agents and who was the shrewdest negotiator that Suleiman has dealt with?
(23:00) Can strong-willed NFL coaches (like San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan) sometimes bust your free agent budget?
(26:30): A deep dive into this year’s free agent quarterback class highlighted by Packers quarterback Malik Willis. Which former free agent does Willis remind Suleiman of? Did Colts general manager Chris Ballard make a smart move by placing the transition tag on injured quarterback Daniel Jones?
(29:10) Are the New York Jets and free agent quarterback Kyler Murray a good fit? More specifically, are Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich and Murray a good fit. Suleiman provides behind-the-scenes intel on working with Reich at the Carolina Panthers.
(32:00) What really happened inside the Carolina Panthers building when the braintrust drafted Bryce Young over C.J. Stroud with the No. 1 overall pick in 2023 NFL Draft?
(34:25) A closer look at free agent Trey Hendrickson and whether the Cincinnati Bengals are smarter than we think.
(37:30): The free agent running back market including Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker of the Seattle Seahawks and Jaguars running back Travis Etienne. Is it worth it to pay big money at that position?
(39:00) Closer look at the Jets decision to place the franchise tag on running back Breece Hall. Did Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey make a mistake by not trading Hall to Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs for a fourth-round pick before the trade deadline last season? How does a history lesson on former Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell enter the equation?
(43:15): Is Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alex Pierce worth the money that he will command on the open market?
(46:40): How has NIL changed college athletic departments? What’s the future for college football programs as more former NFL general managers, executives and front office personnel migrate to that world?
(47:45) Why are NFL teams more willing to absorb big dead money salary cap charges for quarterback now than ever before? The Denver Broncos did precisely that with Russell Wilson. It looks like the Miami Dolphins will do it with Tua Tagovailoa too.
(52:20) Suleiman shares a powerful and emotional story on a recent hunting trip in Africa (Mozambique) that will leave you in awe.
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With the NFL Scouting Combine in the books, Burg and Manish analyze some “winners” and “losers” among the draft prospects who participated in Indianapolis. The truth is that savvy NFL teams won’t be significantly impacted by the so-caller risers and fallers during the week of on-field drills.
The guys kick off with the best Buy-Low prospects who present an opportunity for smart general managers, coaches and executives to pounce on at the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh in April.
Highlights:
(3:00) Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson: Will a slow 40-yard dash hurt his draft stock? Will the guy who some draft pundits would be the third RB off the board after Notre Dame ball carries Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Prive have to wait until Day 3 to get scooped up? Will a smart offensive mind like Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid or Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell take advantage and get a dual-threat steal who has terrific hands as pass catcher.
(6:00) Notre Dame wide receiver Malachi Fields: He has elite size and strength, but will his slow 40 time scare teams away? Fields shined at the Senior Bowl, but did not look impressive in gauntlet field drills.
(8:00) Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston: The two-year starter for the Huskies was questioned for not testing at the Combine. He did look fluid in receiver drills, but his college tape is exceptional. Boston was great at contested catches and a red-zone threat. The guys had Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider scooping up Boston with the No. 32 pick in Round 1 in the first Mock Draft. Will some team now get a steal in Round 2?
(11:00) Oklahoma outside linebacker and edge R Mason Thomas: His measurables are not impressive. But are his short arms enough for him to slide out of the first round? The college tape is incredible. Mason has drawn comparisons to former Sooners star pass rusher Nik Bonitto.
(14:00) Alabama offensive tackle Kayden Proctor: This mountain of a man looked pedestrian in field drills. But the college tape tells a different story of a guy with quick feet and great agility. His pass protection skills and run blocking are coveted among smart NFL teams. There are whispers that Proctor could dominate if he moved inside to guard. Would Philadelphia Eagles GM Howie Roseman select the former Crimson standout with the No. 23 pick in Round 1 to improve his aging offensive line?
(16:15) Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa: Some people were not happy that Mauigoa decoded not to compete in positional drills at the Combine. He’ll wait for the University of Miami Pro Day later this month. But his skill set and durability are highly coveted in NFL circles. He is still expected to be a Top 10 pick.
(19:30) Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate: Much was made about the controversy surrounding Tate’s 40-yard dash time. He officially clocked in at 4.52 seconds before ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter relayed that some general managers and executives recorded a time closer to 4.45-4.47 seconds. Regardless, it would be a surprise if Tate were not the first wideout drafted. Our first mock draft had the Cleveland Browns and new head coach Todd Monken taking Tate with the No. 6 pick.
(21:00) The guys wrap up with a handful of players who opened eyes with excellent measurables, speed and on-field drills like Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, who is an athletic freak that we mocked to Buffalo Bills and Josh Allen. Other winners were speedy Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green, Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, UCONN wide receiver Skyler Bell and home run threat Arkansas running back Mike Washington, Jr.
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Burg and Manish kick off their first NFL mock draft with loads of surprises after Tom Brady’s Las Vegas Raiders take Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza with first overall pick. The New York Jets and head coach Aaron Glenn land the first of two defensive studs in the first round. Todd Monken’s Cleveland Browns make a pair of franchise-changing selections. Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys address their biggest weaknesses with both of their first-round picks. The Rams shock the world with their second selection. The Philadelphia Eagles prepare for life without a future Hall of Famer in the trenches. The Kyle Shanahan’s San Francisco 49ers foil Joe Brady, Josh Allen and the rest of Bills Mafia with a trade to land a potential star wide receiver. There’s no end to the twists and turns on offense and defense in this first mock draft in the run-up to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh in April.
Where will future stars like Jeremiah Love, David Bailey, Arvell Reese, Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, Kenyon Sadiq, Omar Cooper, Jr., Denzel Boston, Francis Mauigoa, Reuben Bain, Akheem Mesidor, Spencer Fano, Mansoor Delane, Jermod McCoy, Olaivavega Ione, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and others land? Will Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson get picked on Day 1 of the draft? Did the Denver Broncos and New England Patriots get the steals of the draft near the end of the round?
Will quarterback-needy teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins pull the trigger or wait until a loaded 2027 draft class that includes Texas star Arch Manning, Oregon’s Donte Moore and Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby?
Which offensive linemen, cornerbacks and linebackers will shine?
A deep dive with fascinating nuggets from top to bottom on the most coveted NFL prospects at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on both sides of the ball.
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Legendary NFL reporter John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL on X) joins the pod to discuss his groundbreaking documentary “PVIL Story: Separate but Equal?” on segregation in Texas high school football (www.maddogentertainment.tv) before talking about the state of the Houston Texans and his claim that he will streak through the streets naked if quarterback C.J. Stroud is traded.
A powerful and entertaining conversation with one of the giants in NFL media over the past half century. A must listen!
Highlights of the episode:
• McClain kicks off the show with behind-the-scenes stories about his new documentary about the history of the Prairie View Interscholastic League (2:48). The veteran scribe shares tales about talking to Pro Football Hall of Famer Jimmy Johnson (6:00) in Key Largo, Fla., about his memories of playing high school football in Texas during a seminal moment in American history. Johnson speaks openly about the biases of some and welcoming arms of others during a pivotal time.
• McClain touches on powerful moments in the documentary that depicted the challenges for black football players like future Hall of Famer “Mean” Joe Greene of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who overcame the hardships in the PVIL to thrive at the highest level (11:30).
• McClain talks about Ken Houston, the legend of Eldridge Dickey and impact of thriving during the Jim Crow Era (14:30). Hall of Famers Warren Moon and Eric Dickerson share the importance of the PVIL players amid the Civil Rights landscape in the documentary.
• McClain transitions to discuss the state of the Houston Texans (27:19) under general manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans. Did the Texans blow their chance of getting to the Super Bowl after C.J. Stroud’s poor playoff performance against the New England Patriots?
• Speaking of Stroud, McClain doubles down on his proclamation that he will run naked through the streets of Houston (Kirby Drive) if the Texans actually trade away the embattled Stroud this offseason! (30:33). Why did McClain decide to announce that? And what did his wife think of the idea of him streaking in his birthday suit? You won’t to miss his answer.
• McClain talks about running back Joe Mixon’s mysterious injury (36:30), Nick Caley’s first year as offensive coordinator, the offensive line struggles, Matt Burke’s elite defense and Derek Stingley’s emergence as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.
• McClain, who will cover his 50th NFL training camp this summer, shares a camp memory about prankster Mike Rozier that will make you laugh (46:30) and wraps up with a question on everyone’s mind: Does the Baylor alum and Waco native know Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper and Magnolia fame?
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Veteran NFL reporter Greg Bedard of the Boston Sports Journal (bostonsportsjournal.com) joins the pod to break down the New England Patriots’ magical Super Bowl run with Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel, and analyze pressing topics this offseason. Before Bedard (@GregABedard on X) dives into the Patriots, the former Sports Illustrated scribe opines on the hot-button topic centering on the NFL’s recent arbitration victory over the NFL Players Association’s annual public release of player report cards (2:00). Bedard pulls no punches when criticizing “clueless” NFL owners. He then provides in-depth analysis of the Patriots 2025 campaign and what lies ahead this offseason.
Highlights of the episode:
• Analyzing rookie left tackle Will Campbell’s struggles against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX (5:25) and whether moving him to guard makes sense. Can you win a championship with him?
• Which left tackle the Patriots were targeting in NFL free agency last season, but missed on (11:05). Was New England's offensive line struggles against Mike MacDonald's defense an eye-opener that can't be ignored?
• Will the Patriots cut Stefon Diggs (13:58) and trade for Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown? (17:40)
• A free agent tight end and offensive lineman to keep an eye on, including poaching a former first-round pick of the New York Jets (24:05)
• The Washington Commanders cautionary tale from last season that might impact how the Patriots brain trust operates in the next few months (18:30)
• Ranking the Patriots biggest offseason needs (20:52)
• Will young star cornerback Christian Gonzalez get a contract extension? (33:15)
• Breaking down Drake Maye’s second season and how to strategically build around him (38:00)
• Are the Patriots shoo-ins to win the AFC East in 2026? (46:15)
• Mike Vrabel’s secret sauce in his first year as Patriots head coach (50:32)
#SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #Patriots #SuperBowl #SuperBowlRecap #SportsMedia #GregBedard #MikeVrabel #BostonSports #StefonDiggs #WillCampbell #DrakeMaye #AJBrown #MaxxCrosby #TreyHendrickson #NFLFreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #MikeVrabel #ChristianGonzalez #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Burg and Manish break down the Seattle Seahawks’ 29-13 win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. Mike Macdonald’s defense dominated Drake Maye & Co. en route to hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Kenneth Walker carved up Mike Vrabel’s defense, which held Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in check all night.
The guys dissect the Patriots’ porous offensive line, rookie left tackle Will Campbell’s struggles and what else went wrong for Josh McDaniels’ offense.
On the flip side, the Patriots defense played well enough to win by holding Seattle to five Jason Meyers field goals and just one touchdown.
In the end, was it inevitable that the Seahawks would become Super Bowl champions?
The guys then discuss Seahawks general manager John Schneider) (28:00, who became the first GM in NFL history to win two Super Bowls for the same team with two different head coaches and rosters. It was a forgettable night for former Jets general manager Joe Douglas, who punctuated his failed legacy as the man who traded away Sam Darnold as a 23-year-old (30:00).
The guys wrap up with their thoughts on the new Pro Football Hall of Fame class (32:00), Tony Dungy’s refusal to disclose his votes and Randy Moss’ and Deion Sanders’ thoughts on revamping the voting process. Wil the Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft snubs spark real change?
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Burg and Manish kick off the Super Bowl LX Preview episode questioning New England Patriots legend Tom Brady’s curious comments about who he’ll be rooting for in the big game. The guys pivot to the quarterback matchup featuring Drake Maye and Sam Darnold. Will Maye’s mysterious shoulder injury or Darnold’s oblique issue impact their play on Super Sunday?
Then, Manish zeroes in on the Seattle Seahawks’ stout defense versus New England’s shaky pass protection as the key to the game (15:00). Mike Vrabel’s defense has played its best in the postseason (17:20), which could present challenges for Darnold, too.
The game features two terrific leaders in Vrabel and Mike Macdonald, but does one team have a clear head coaching advantage (18:32)? Burg thinks the Patriots might have a coaching edge in one specific area (19:53).
The discussion moves to the Patriots’ willingness to embrace the underdog mentality (20:20) all season. On the flip side, the Seahawks are dealing with a potentially impactful injury to dynamic rookie safety Nick Emanwori (24:00). Will Maye & Co. be able to take advantage of it?
Manish gives his Super Bowl prediction (26:00) before Burg chimes in with his counterpoint to which team will hoist the Lombardi Trophy (28:00). Manish offers his X-factor for the game (30:18) before the guys give their Super Bowl MVP picks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Sports betting expert and fantasy football pioneer John Hansen (fantasypoints.com founder, @VSinLive, @Fantasy_Guru on X) joins the podcast to break down all angles of the Seahawks-Patriots Super Bowl LX gambling landscape. Hansen, the host of “Prop Points” on @VSiNLive Monday-Friday from 1-2 pm ET, kicks off the program by weighing on Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s Hall of Fame snub (4:00).
Hansen reveals The Art of Prop Bet (7:00) by explaining his process when determining which bets to zero in on. Hansen’s process and projections blend analytics from fantasypoints.com with his institutional knowledge from more than 30 years as a professional prognosticator.
Then, Burg and Manish dive into the Super Bowl player prop bets beginning with Hansen’s best bets on Sam Darnold and Drake Maye (10:30). Hansen analyzes Darnold’s resurgence and artfully weaves that storyline into his rationale for Darnold props for the big game. One Darnold prop bets stands out in Manish’s eyes (14:30).
Hansen explains his side on Maye’s rushing total for the game (15:48) before a deep dive on Patriots running back’s TreVeyon Henderson prop bets (17:36). Hansen’s breakdown of Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson (19:10) will make you put down specific wagers on New England’s backfield.
Hansen turns his attention to Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker (24:30) and which wagers make the most sense. The sports betting expert then shares his two favorite matchups revolving around Patriots tight end Hunter Henry and Seattle wide receiver Cooper Kupp (27:15), which can help you cash in on Super Sunday.
Hansen analyzes the Jaxon Smith-Njigba vs Christian Gonzalez matchup with a strong thought on how to wager JSN’s over/under receiving total (28:28). From there, the guys analyze the first-half game line (Patriots +3.5) and over/under totals for the game (32:29).
Hansen discusses the secret behind “The Patriot Way” (32:55) before the guys talk about one sneaky-good defensive prop bet (36:00). Burg shares his favorite team prop bet (38:20) before the guys have some fun with off-field props like whether Darnold’s “seeing ghosts” comment will resurface (40:10), Charlie Puth’s projected length of the National Anthem and much more.
Hansen wraps up with a fun story during his appearance on Curb Your Enthusiasm with Larry David.
A must-listen with one of the sharpest and entertaining people in the sports wagering and fantasy space. Follow Hansen on X: @Fantasy_Guru. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Quarterback guru and consultant Jordan Palmer (QBSummit.com and ThreadPerformance.com) gives a wide-ranging interview on Sam Darnold’s wild journey and Drake Maye’s rise in the run-up to Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.
An informative and eye-opening look at Darnold and Maye through the eyes of one of the best quarterback evaluators in the country.
Palmer, who has worked with Darnold since he was 14 years old, kicks off the pod with his reaction to the Minnesota Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s firing (4:45). Palmer provides inside information on why the Vikings let Darnold walk in free agency... and how head coach Kevin O'Connell was left to accelerate J.J. McCarthy's development.
Palmer's year-round tutelage of Darnold since he was a high school freshman has helped the signal caller realize his potential. He gives a detailed breakdown of how Darnold’s biomechanics have evolved through the years from his days with the New York Jets (10:40), including a fun off-season training routine on a basketball court (13:00). Palmer is effusive in his praise of Darnold’s resilience in the face of rocky times (16:15).
Calling Darnold the best off-platform thrower in the NFL, Palmer re-visits the best pass of Darnold’s career (19:15) with the Jets. The quarterback guru offers his assessment on what went wrong with Darnold and former Jets coach Adam Gase (20:00) before highlighting Darnold’s fortitude to weather the ups and downs in the early part of his career (24:45).
Palmer shares his secret tips to Darnold and other clients like Bengals star Joe Burrow, Bills star and former MVP Josh Allen and others to navigate the good times and bad times (27:20).
The conversation turns to Maye, where Palmer waxes poetic about the second-year quarterback’s big jump (29:32). Palmer offers a counter-intuitive theory on leadership for young quarterbacks. From there, he discusses the difference between “reactionary confidence” and “self-generated confidence” as it relates to Maye (32:55). He follows by explaining how Maye reminds him of Philip Rivers (35:40) and shares a funny story about Vikings QBs coach Josh McCown’s history with Maye (37:10).
Palmer goes into a deeper explanation of his recent eye-opening comments before the AFC Championship Game that there’s not much difference between Maye and Denver Broncos backup-turned-starter Jarrett Stidham if both play at their best (38:30).
Palmer gives a detailed comparison between Maye and Josh Allen (43:51) before giving his prediction on Super Bowl LX.
A fun and entertaining conversation with a highly respected quarterbacks coach, who works with some of the best NFL players and college prospects entering the NFL Draft. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Legendary NFL reporter Peter King joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation that kicks off with his thoughts on Bill Belichicks’ shocking Pro Football Hall of Fame snub (2:45). King, a longtime Hall of Fame voter before his retirement, makes his first extensive comments on the topic that had the sports world buzzing this week. King also reacts to HOF voter Vahe Gregorian’s (Kansas City Star) published rationale for leaving Belichick off his ballot (6:25).
King’s institutional knowledge on the selection process takes us behind the scenes of the spirited debates on candidates each year. He also chimes in on Eli Manning’s exclusion for the second consecutive year (11:00) before a deep dive on why finalist Adam Vinateri deserves a spot in Canton (15:00) and why more players from the Patriots dynasty are not in the Hall of Fame.
King makes it clear that Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who is a Hall of Fame finalist in the contributor category this year, has waited too long to be enshrined (20:45).
King’s take on wide receivers – especially HOF finalists Torry Holt, Reggie Wayne and Larry Fitzgerald – is a must listen (24:50). So, who would have King voted for this season? He shares what his ballot would have looked like (30:30).
King wraps up the Hall of Fame discussion with a fun deep-dive on Mike Shanahan (37:25), whose exclusion to this point makes little sense given his impact on the field and historic coaching tree.
Burg and Manish pivot to the current head coaching cycle (44:00). King offers his biggest surprise hires (44:30) and belief that the Raiders’ best move would be to trade superstar edge rusher Maxx Crosby (47:45). The conversation turns quickly to the New York Jets’ ongoing ineptitude (49:55) when King pulls no punches on the historic laughingstock.
King provides an interesting perspective on why the Eagles have had trouble finding an offensive coordinator too (57:00). Is Jalen Hurts a selling point or detriment to the job?
The Super Bowl LX conversation begins with King’s explanation why head coaches now seem to be allergic to kicking field goals in an analytics-driven NFL (1 hour, 5 min). And should more teams build domes after the snow globe AFC Championship Game between the Broncos and Patriots? (1 hour, 9 min).
Can the Patriots beat the Seahawks in the Super Bowl? (1 hour, 13.25 min) Kings sees parallels with Tom Brady’s first Super Bowl-winning team 24 years ago.
The conversation comes to a close with King sharing his upcoming television piece on NBC on Super Bowl Sunday (1 hour, 20.45 min) The veteran scribe canvassed the country to find why we love football. From Alaska to a Native American Reservation in America’s heartland, King will take the viewer to special places to uncover people’s enduring fascination with the sport.
King concludes by sharing details of his forthcoming book entitled “The Game,” a closer and updated look at some of his favorite stories in 40 years of covering the NFL (1 hour, 25 min). King goes back and re-reports some of the most fascinating tales that he brought to light throughout the years. King’s latest book is set to be released in the fall.
An incredible conversation with the best NFL reporter of this generation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Manish and Burg interview Ben Volin from the Boston Globe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Burg and Manish preview the NFL conference championship games. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Burg, Joe and Manish break down the head coaching carousel before diving into a wild weekend on the field. The Giants and John Harbaugh are a perfect match, while new Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski is tasked with developing Michael Penix, Jr. The Bills fire Sean McDermott after a crushing overtime loss to the Broncos that left Josh Allen in tears.
Did the officials screw up in Denver? A closer look at a litany of controversial calls, including whether Brandin Cooks should have been credited with a catch on a key play in overtime. And what actually is a catch anyway? The NFL's inconsistent messaging has left fans scratching their heads. The Broncos will be forced to start Jarrett Stidham in the conference title game after Bo Nix breaks his ankle in overtime.
The Seahawks' dominant defense and rushing attack foiled the 49ers for the second time in three weeks. Kyle Shanahan, Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey had no answers for Mike Macdonald's suffocating defense. Sam Darnold wins his first playoff game in the process.
Meanwhile, the Patriots are back in the AFC Championship Game after crushing C.J. Stroud's soul. The Texans' Super Bowl-caliber defense wasn't enough to overcome Stroud's parade of miscues. New England's resurgence under Mike Vrabel and second-year quarterback Drake Make has it on the precipice of another Super Bowl appearance.
Finally, Caleb Williams' miracle fourth-quarter touchdown pass wasn't enough in a white-knuckler against the Rams. Sean McVay survived his own coaching blunders to set up a divisional showdown in Seattle in the NFC Championship Game.
The guys end with this pivotal question: Will Bill Belichick be rooting against the Patriots next week? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Burg and Manish react to Mike Tomlin's stunning departure from the Steelers before breaking down four marquee Divisional Round playoff matchups.
Can Josh Allen carry the Bills to another road win against the top-seed Broncos? Or will Sean Payton and Bo Nix exact revenge from their blowout playoff loss in Buffalo last season?
Sam Darnold takes center stage in a Week 18 rematch against the injury-riddled 49ers. Kyle Shanahan's team laid an egg a few weeks ago, but rides the momentum from a Wildcard upset over the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles.
Drake Maye and the Patriots face their toughest test yet against a ferocious Texans defense led by Will Anderson, Jr. Can the Texans rely on the turnover-prone C.J. Stroud to help them advance to their first conference championship game in franchise history?
Are the cardiac Bears a team of destiny? Caleb Williams tries to pull another rabbit out of the hat against the high-powered Rams. Sean McVay will lean on Matthew Stafford, Puka Nuca and Devante Adams to help L.A. get one step closer to the Super Bowl. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Former Tennessee Titans general manager Jon Robinson joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation on life as a scout and executive during the Patriots dynasty, making tough choices as a general manager, hiring Mike Vrabel and his ongoing work to help head coaching candidates nail their job interviews.
Robinson opens with a deep dive on his decade as an integral member of the Patriots dynasty, including taking us behind the curtain working with Bill Belichick. Robinson shares a fun story during the draft process about how the Patriots landed future Hall of Famer Rob Gronkowski. He reveals why he hired Mike Vrabel in 2018 and provides analysis on the current head coach openings around the NFL. Robinson shares the secret for head coaching candidates during the interview process, including an often overlooked element that can pave the way to impress owners and GMs. Robinson's current work includes helping players like Brock Bowers prepare for team interviews in the run-up to the NFL draft and coaching candidates like Liam Coen in the HC hiring process.
Robinson continues with the challenges for former GMs to get a second opportunity and the growing trend of GMs for college programs.
He also provides analysis on the divisional round playoff matchups and wraps up with a story about his former draft pick -- and future Hall of Famer -- Derrick Henry.
An informative and entertaining conversation with a bright NFL mind. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Josh Allen's heroics in Jacksonville highlight a wild playoff weekend that included comeback wins for the Rams, Bears and 49ers. Will Matthew Stafford & Co. use their white-knuckler in Carolina as a springboard to the Super Bowl? Does Caleb Williams have more magic left after an improbable win against the Packers? What's next for the Eagles after a heartbreaking loss to Brock Purdy & Kyle Shanahan? A fun and passionate roundtable on one of the most entertaining playoff weekends in memory. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Lorenzo Neal joins the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Burg and Manish preview wildcard weekend! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Joe, Burg and Manish lock in on a crazy week 18 in the NFL. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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