Advertise on podcast: Between the Tackles

Gary Vaynerchuck is an entrepreneur, marketing guru and social media influencer who serves as the Chairman of VaynerX, the CEO of VaynerMedia, Creator and CEO of VeeFriends and a six-time New York Times Best Selling Author. Gary Vee is also a lifelong New York Jets fan, who has endured his fair share of heartache rooting for his favorite team. Gary Vee kicks off the episode by sharing insights on the growth of VaynerSports, a full-service talent representation and sports marketing consulting agency, over the past decade. From representing NFL Pro Bowl players like Detroit Lions superstar Aiden Hutchinson to Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner, VaynerSports has made an impact on the marketing and business side of football. VaynerSports also represents Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, a projected Top 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Gary Vee discusses how he competes with more established powerhouse NFL agencies to land top-tier elite NFL prospects. He shares the secret of leveraging his marketing and social media expertise to land coveted college prospects. Gary Vee shares his short-term and long-term visions for VaynerSports, including his strategies for continued growth in a very crowded space. What’s the best way to build the company? Would he add premier NFL agents like Joel Segal, Dave Mulugheta (Athletes First) or Tory Dandy (CAA) if they became free agents? Gary Vee talks about his lifelong chase to own the New York Jets. The influx of private equity firms investing in NFL teams will make it a daunting challenge. Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross recently agreed to sell one percent of his franchise that has a $12.5 billion valuation. The San Diego Padres recently sold for $3.9 billion, or three times as much as Steve Cohen purchased for the New York Mets in 2020. Gary Vee shares a funny story about Ross, who is business partners with him. With the value of pro sports franchises skyrocketing, Gary Vee dives into whether he would ever consider buying an NFL team other than the New York Jets. He shares a never-before told story about how he and legendary New York Jets running back Curtis Martin nearly teamed up at Vayner Sports and how the Hall of Famer helped him recruit future NFL Pro Bowler Budda Baker. Gary Vee goes on to his leadership style that is rooted in no fear. He goes on to discuss he has been able to connect with professional athletes like Super Bowl champion quarterback Sam Darnold and Dallas Cowboys (and former New York Jets Pro Bowler) Quinnen Williams. Gary Vee has made an impact and difference in countless people’s lives. He dives deep into why he continues to help others achieve greatness. He leaves little doubt about the impact that his parents have had on his life and why he chooses to see the good in every situation. Gary Vee’s passion, growth mindset and positive and optimistic outlook on life shines through during the episode. His insights on leadership, building business and chasing his biggest dream are fascinating.   #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #NewYorkJets #NYJets #NewYorkJetsNews #MiamiDolphins #StephenRoss #SanDiegoPadres #NYMets #NewYorkMets #2026NFLDraft #NFLMockDraft #NFLCombine #SonnyStyles #ScoutingCombine #2026NFLCombine #Podcast #NFLFootball #FreeAgency #Patriots #SuperBowl #SportsMedia #FreeAgency #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #Widereceivers #Quarterback #AaronGlenn #OhioState #Buckeyes #USCFootball #AlabamaFootball #MiamiFootball #Gridirontalk #NFLChampions #ProFootballTalk #ProFootballNetwork #PhinsUp #RollTide #TeamStrategies #NFLBreakdown #NFLProspects Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A wild Final 2026 NFL Mock Draft show includes five trades, including three by one AFC team. Where will future stars like Jeremiyah Love, David Bailey, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, Kenyon Sadiq, Omar Cooper, Jr., Monroe Freeling, Omar Cooper Jr., Denzel Boston, Francis Mauigoa, Reuben Bain, Akheem Mesidor, Spencer Fano, Mansoor Delane, Spencer Fano, Caleb Lomu, T.J. Parker, Jermod McCoy, Colton Hood, Keldric Faulk, Max Iheanachor, Kayden Proctor, Cashius Howell, Zion Young, Dillon Thieneman, Blake Miller, Olaivavega Ioane, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and others land? Will Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson get picked on Day 1? Will quarterback-needy teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets pull the trigger or wait until a loaded 2027 draft class that includes Texas star Arch Manning, Oregon’s Donte Moore & Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby? Which offensive linemen, safeties, cornerbacks & linebackers will shine? Will Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown be traded? Will the New England Patriots trade their first-round pick to reunite Brown with Mike Vrabel? What will the Miami Dolphins do with the pick from the Denver Broncos in the Jaylen Waddle deal? Highlights: (6:10) Trade No. 1: (9:25) Trade No. 2: (22:10) Trade No. 3: (33:25) Trade No. 4: (37:30) Trade No. 5: #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #MockDraft #2026NFLDraft #NFLMockDraft #NFLCombine #ScoutingCombine #2026NFLCombine #Podcast #NFLFootball #FreeAgency #Patriots #SuperBowl #SportsMedia #Raiders #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #TySimpson #ArvellReese #JeremiyahLove #CalebDowns #KenyonSadiq #JordynTyson #SeanMcVay #AndyReid #DrakeMaye #FreeAgency #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #ArchManning #CarsonBeck #Nussmeier #NationalChampions #BrendanSorsby #IndianaFootball #MakaiLemon #Widereceivers #Quarterback #AaronGlenn #Eagles #AJBrown #NotreDame #OhioState #Buckeyes #USCFootball #AlabamaFootball #MiamiFootball #TexasLonghorns #TexasLonghorns #FightingIrish #NotreDameFootball #Gridirontalk #NFLChampions #ProFootballTalk #ProFootballNetwork #PhinsUp #RollTide #TeamStrategies #NFLBreakdown #HowieRoseman #GoIrish #JadarianPrice #NFLProspects #CarnellTate #GoIrish #RollTide #JeremiyahLove #JadarianPrice #NotreDameFootball #MikeVrabel #AJBrown #AJBrownTrade #HowieRoseman #JalenHurts #TySimpson #MaxxCrosby #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #CarnellTate #MakaiLemon #JaylenWaddle #SeanPayton #Broncos #Chargers #JustinHerbert #JoshAllen Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Follow us! IG: @TacklesPod X: @tacklespod YouTube: @tacklespod TikTok: @tacklespod Burg and Manish kick off the show by discussing the latest on the scandal centering on New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and former Athletic NFL Insider Dianna Russini after her recent resignation. Is there a double standard at play? Why did Russini resign amid the Athletic internal investigation in the wake of the New York Post Page 6 story? What, if any, repercussions will Vrabel face? Then, the guys take a deep dive in the Top 10 running back prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. They rank the ball carriers from No. 1-No. 10 with team and scheme fits and which rounds they are projected to get selected in Pittsburgh next week. Which teams have shown interest in each of the top running back in this year’s draft class? Great discussions on projected Top 10 pick Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame), Mike Washington, Jr. (Arkansas), Emmett Johnson (Nebraska), Nicholas Singleton (Penn State), Jadarian Price (Notre Dame), Kaytron Allen (Penn State), Seth McGowen (Kentucky), Roman Hemby (Indiana), Kaelon Black (Indiana), Jaydn Ott (Oklahoma), Adam Randall (Clemson), Demond Claiborne (Wake Forest), Jonah Coleman (Washington). Who will be the next Bijan Robinson, Saquon Barkley or Christian McCaffrey? Some of the running backs in the 2026 NFL Draft class have comparisons to Bucky Irving, Blake Corum, Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker, Kyren Williams, Isaiah Pacheco and other established players in the league. Teams like the Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks, Jacksonville Jaguars, Washington Commanders, Cincinnati Bengals Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons have been doing their homework by bringing in running backs for pre-draft visits in the run-up to the 2026 NFL Draft. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What should we make of the New York Post Page Six story about the coach and reporter meeting in Arizona? Should Russini’s reporting on Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s future and possible trade be called into question? Did Russini’s and Vrabel’s statements refuting the insinuation of an improper relationship change the mind of the public? Will people question Russini’s agenda for future reports connected with the Patriots and Vrabel, who she admitted was a source in her statement? Burg and Manish focus on the fallout from a purely reporting and journalistic standpoint. Is there a conflict of interest? Speaking of conflicts of interest, ESPN Monday NightFootball NFL broadcaster Troy Aikman made news by sharing behind-the-scenes intel on why the Miami Dolphins hired him as a consultant. Aikman made it clear that owner Stephen Ross & Co. were attracted to his ability to get information from other teams’ players, coaches and front office personnel in his role as a broadcaster. New Miami Dolphins G.M. Jon-Eric Sullivan said that Aikman has been a good sounding board. Aikman’s involvement with the Dolphins prompts questions about an obvious conflict of interest similar to the ones people already have about FOX Sports NFL broadcaster Tom Brady’s ownership stake with the Los Vegas Raiders. Brady showed up for the first day of the Raiders off-season program this week, highlighting his involvement with the team. Aikman’s and Brady’s dual roles as broadcaster and NFL team employees/owners opens the door for other teams do hire a broadcaster to be on their payroll to get inside intel from other clubs. The NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell does not seem inclined to close this loophole. So why shouldn’t a team hire other NFL analysts and broadcasters like Tony Romo (CBS), Greg Olsen (FOX), Cris Collinsworth (NBC), Kirk Herbstreit (Prime Video), J.J. Watt, Trent Green, Jason McCourty, Adam Archuleta and others? The guys move on to the recent stories about Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Reports from ESPN and the Philadelphia Inquirer painted a less-than-favorable picture of the former Super Bowl MVP. Is Eagles general manager Howie Roseman trying to send a message to Hurts, who has been criticized via anonymous sources? How will Hurts do in new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion’s Kyle Shanhan-inspired West Coast offense? Hurts is not expected to get a contract extension this offseason. More topics: New Guardian caps that will feature a smaller and sleeker design, the outsized demand for tickets for the first NFL game in Australia (Los Angeles Rams versus the San Francisco 49ers), the Raiders signing Kirk Cousins and Lamar Jackson showing up for the first day of the Baltimore Ravens offseason program under new head coach Jesse Minter. HIGHLIGHTS: (1:30): Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini controversy (17:00): Troy Aikman’s conflict of interest with the Miami Dolphins is similar to Tom Brady’s situation with the Las Vegas Raiders. Should all NFL teams take advantage of this loophole? (23:57): Is this a make-or-break year for Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts? (32:00): The new Guardian caps 2.0 version are sleeker and smaller. Will more players wear them in 2026? (34:00): Why are NFL fans in Australia complaining about tickets to the upcoming 49ers-Rams Week 1 game? (37:00): What does Kirk Cousins signing with the Las Vegas Raiders mean for the No. 1 pick of 2026 NFL Draft Fernando Mendoza? (39:50): Lamar Jackson shows up for the first day of the Baltimore Ravens offseason program with new head coach Jesse Minter #NFLPodcast #SportsPodcast #NFLCombine #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #NFLFreeAgency #NFLDraft #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #SportsJournalism #SportsMedia #JalenHurts #TroyAikman #GuardianCaps #KirkCousins #TomBrady #Raiders #RaiderNation #LasVegasRaiders #AustraliaFootball Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Robinson gives secrets to acing player interviews when questioned by NFL head coaches, NFL scouts, NFL general managers, NFL owners and media at the NFL Combine and in the weeks leading up to the NFL Draft. Robinson spent the past two years helping players prepare for All-Star Game interviews, NFL Combine interviews and Top 30 Visit interviews. Robinson was working for WIN Sports Group, a sports representation firm founded by Patrick Whitesell that works with stars like Joe Burrow and Nick Bosa, before recently getting hired by Miami Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan to work as a front office and personnel executive for the AFC East team. Robinson also discusses his role in helping head coach candidates like Liam Coen of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the hiring process with NFL teams. Robinson also talks about the challenges for former GMs to get a second opportunity and the growing trend of general managers for college programs in the NIL era. Robinson was still working with WIN Sports Group when he shared never-before-told stories with Manish and Burg about working with legendary Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. Robinson shares his humbling beginnings as a scout with the help of friend and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht. Robinson also chronicles his various roles within the Patriots organization, starting with a promotion after the Thomas Dimitroff left to become the Atlanta Falcons G.M. He relays a wild draft story about how and why the Pats (including current Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio and Belichick) drafted future Hall of Fame tight end Rob Gronkowski. Robinson’s storytelling about Gronk will sure to make you laugh. Robinson talks about how the Patriots drafted reliable wide receiver Julian Edelman and talks about Troy Brown, Wes Welker, Danny Amendola, Danny Woodhead and other valuable members of the Pats. Robinson discusses his time with the Bucs when Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans was drafted. He then talks about his time as the Titans general manager when he hired Mike Vrabel, helped revive Ryan Tannehill and drafted future Hall of Fame running back Derrick Henry. Robinson also recalled the time that his AFC South team beat the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs. An informative and entertaining conversation with a bright NFL mind in this encore episode. (1:55) How Robinson got into scouting (2:45) Working for the Patriots and Bill Belichick (6:25) Rob Gronkowski Draft Story (12:41): Drafting Julian Edelman (16:47): Hiring Mike Vrabel as Titans HC (53:00) Helping Liam Coen and Brock Bowers prepare for interviews Check out our other videos on the 2026 NFL Draft and Free Agency: 1)     2026 NFL Mock Draft, Post-Free Agency (http://bit.ly/3NrdJ4R) 2)     Top 10 Best Unsigned Free Agents (https://bit.ly/4lPbp47). Download and Listen to “Between the Tackles” on Apple (https://bit.ly/4s3hZ8Y) and Spotify (https://bit.ly/4dIiVMd). WATCH SUBSCRIBE (for free) to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@tacklespod LISTEN DOWNLOAD, COMMENT & LEAVE A 5 STAR️ RATING on Apple: https://bit.ly/4s3hZ8Y DOWNLOAD, COMMENT & LEAVE A 5️ STAR RATING on Spotify: https://bit.ly/4dIiVMd FOLLOW IG: @TacklesPod TIKTOK: @TacklesPod YouTube: @TacklesPod #NFL #NFLDraft #MiamiDolphins Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(3:00): Surprising biggest Fantasy Football Winner after free agency (6:00): Biggest Fantasy Football Loser after NFL Free Agency Frenzy (6:30): Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker joins Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. Will the Seattle Seahawks add more running back help in the 2026 NFL Draft for Zach Charbonnet after signing former Green Bay Packers free agent running back Emmanuel Wilson? (10:55): What does Travis Etienne, Jr., arrival with the New Orleans Saints mean for Alvin Kamara? (13:30): Is former Baltimore Ravens RB Keaton Mitchell is sneaky good signing for Los Angeles Chargers coaches Jim Harbaugh and Mike McDaniel? Or will Omarion Hampton still be the bellcow? (15:00): Did the Pittsburgh Steelers upgrade for Kenneth Gainwell to Rico Dowdle in free agency? Is Jaylen Warren still a fantasy factor? What should fantasy managers make of Bucky Irving now? (21:30): Where should we draft Jalen Waddle after Sean Payton’s Denver Broncos traded for him? What does this mean for Bo Nix, RJ Harvey, Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin and Pat Bryant? Can Nix bring out the best in Waddle after years with Tua Tagovailoa? Is Waddle a Top 20 PPR wide receiver? (25:30): Does AJ Brown have more fantasy value on the Philadelphia Eagles with Jalen Hurts or New England Patriots with Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel? (27:35): Will Michael Pittman and D.K. Metcalf be a good duo with the Steelers and Mike McCarthy? Richard compares the Pittsburgh wideouts to other comparable players at the position like Romeo Doubs, Josh Downs and Ricky Pearsall. (30:30): What is the fantasy ceiling and floor for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alex Pierce and Tennessee Titans WR Wan’Dale Robinson? Will they both get enough targets for fantasy football managers? (34:15): What can we expect from Dallas Cowboys WR George Pickens after he got the franchise tag instead of a long-term contract from Jerry Jones? (36:20): Will Justin Jefferson benefit by playing with Kyler Murray? Can Kevin O’Connell revive Murray’s career? (39:20): How will Geno Smith impact Garrett Wilson’s fantasy value? (42:05): Will new New York Giants tight end Isaiah Likely be a reliable fantast option with Jaxson Dart as his quarterback? Where does Likely rank among other TEs like Sam LaPorta, Tucker Kraft and Kyle Pitts? Is he Top 10? (44:30) Richard talks dynasty, salary cap leagues. (50:30): A closer look at USC wide receiver Makai Lemon and why Richard compares him to Super Bowl champion Jaxon Smith-Njigba (JSN), who became the highest paid wide receiver in NFL history this week. Richard also talks about a college running back prospect that he is excited about: Arkansas RB Mike Washington #NFLPodcast #NFL #SportsPodcast #NFLCombine #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #NFLFreeAgency #NFLDraft #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #BillsMafia#CBSFantasy #DaveRichard #FantasyMockDraft Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check out our earlier Mock Draft 1.0 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-the-tackles/id1710483160?i=1000751908491) and Best Buy-Low Draft Prospects after the Scouting Combine  (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-the-tackles/id1710483160?i=1000752910540) Will Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown be traded? Will the New England Patriots trade their first-round pick to reunite Brown with Mike Vrabel? What will the Miami Dolphins do with the pick from the Denver Broncos in the Jaylen Waddle deal? Where will future stars like Jeremiyah Love, David Bailey, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, Kenyon Sadiq, Omar Cooper, Jr., Monroe Freeling, Omar Cooper Jr., Denzel Boston, Francis Mauigoa, Reuben Bain, Akheem Mesidor, Spencer Fano, Mansoor Delane, Spencer Fano, Caleb Lomu, T.J. Parker, Jermod McCoy, Colton Hood, Keldric Faulk, Max Iheanachor, Kayden Proctor, Cashius Howell, Zion Young, Dillon Thieneman, Blake Miller, Olaivavega Ioane, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren land? Will Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson be picked on Day 1? Will quarterback-needy teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets pull the trigger or wait until a loaded 2027 draft class that includes Texas star Arch Manning, Oregon’s Donte Moore & Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby? Which offensive linemen, safeties, cornerbacks & linebackers will shine? A deep dive with nuggets on coveted NFL prospects. (1:40): Las Vegas Raiders brass Marc Davis, Tom Brady, John Spytek & Klint Kubiak draft Heisman Trophy winner quarterback Fernando Menzoza from Indiana with the No. 1 pick. Vegas free agency included the Maxx Crosby trade debacle, trading Geno Smith & signing center Tyler Linderbaum. (3:00): Jets general manager Darren Mougey give Aaron Glenn help. (3:40): Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur goes for upside. (4:45): Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh added pass rushers Jermaine Johnson & John Franklin-Myers. Mike Borgonzi gives OC Brian Daboll a weapon in Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Is Love the next Bijan Robinson or Christian McCaffrey (CMC)? Love will help Cam Ward. (6:08): Giants HC John Harbaugh selects an LSU cornerback. (7:40): Cleveland Browns’ Todd Monken solidifies o-line. (8:20): Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters & Dan Quinn find the next Fred Warner with an Ohio State linebacker. (11:00): New Orleans Saints & Kellen Moore got Jacksonville Jaguars RB Travis Etienne in free agency. Tyler Shough gets another weapon to add to Chris Olave. (11:30): Andy Reid sures up offensive line with a Jawaan Taylor replacement (12:15): Cincinnati Bengals & Zach Taylor add defense after signing UFAs Boye Mafe & Bryan Cook. Joe Burrow & Ja’Marr Chase are happy. (13:45): Miami Dolphins Jeff Hafley & GM Jon-Eric Sullivan take an Ohio State safety after cutting Tua Tagovailoa & adding Malik Willis (16:00): Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones takes a Tennessee cornerback (torn ACL rehab) after adding Green Bay Packers’ Rashan Gary & moving defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. (16:45): Sean McVay & Rams get an Arizona State WR to help Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua & Devante Adams. (18:00): Baltimore Ravens GM Eric DeCosta uses the pick from the failed Crosby trade to help Lamar Jackson. (19:40): Todd Bowles’ Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jets take edges. (22:45): Detroit Lions’ Dan Campbell gets offensive line help. Minnesota Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell, who added Kyler Murray, takes a Toledo safety to replace Harrison Smith. (24:20): Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan drafts NFL combine star Oregon tight end to pair with NFL offensive rookie of the year Tetairoa McMillan & help Bryce Young. (27:00): Cowboys take a Georgia linebacker before Mike McCarthy gets Penn State interior offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane to replace Isaac Seumalo. (30:00): Jim Harbaugh, Mike McDaniel get an Alabama stud to protect Los Angeles Chargers QB Justin Herbert before Philly adds future Hall of Famer Lane Johnson’s eventual successor. (32:15): Browns get an Indiana WR to help Shadeur Sanders before Ben Johnson drafts an NFL Scouting Combine standout for the Chicago Bears. (34:00): Buffalo Bills’ Joe Brady take a Clemson edge instead of helping Josh Allen before Kyle Shanahan and San Francisco 49ers get Utah offensive tackle with Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams likely gone. (36:30): Houston Texans get OL help before the Chiefs (from Trent McDuffie trade) get a Texas Tech edge for defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. (38:55): Dolphins gets a Washington WR. (39:10): Pats & Eagles GM Howie Roseman make A.J. Brown trade. Nick Sirianni drafts a Missouri edge to replace Jaelan Phillips & help Vic Fango. (44:45): Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks & GM Jon Schneider trade out of the first round. #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #MockDraft #2026NFLDraft #NFLMockDraft #NFLCombine #ScoutingCombine #2026NFLCombine #Podcast #NFLFootball #FreeAgency #Patriots #SuperBowl #SportsMedia #Raiders #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #TySimpson #ArvellReese #JeremiyahLove #CalebDowns #KenyonSadiq #JordynTyson #SeanMcVay #AndyReid #DrakeMaye #FreeAgency #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #ArchManning #CarsonBeck #Nussmeier #NationalChampions #BrendanSorsby #IndianaFootball #MakaiLemon #Widereceivers #Quarterback #AaronGlenn #Eagles #AJBrown #NotreDame #OhioState #Buckeyes #USCFootball #AlabamaFootball #MiamiFootball #TexasLonghorns #TexasLonghorns #FightingIrish #NotreDameFootball #Gridirontalk #NFLChampions #ProFootballTalk #ProFootballNetwork #PhinsUp #RollTide #TeamStrategies #NFLBreakdown #HowieRoseman #GoIrish #JadarianPrice #NFLProspects #CarnellTate #GoIrish #RollTide #JeremiyahLove #JadarianPrice #NotreDameFootball #MikeVrabel #AJBrown #AJBrownTrade #HowieRoseman #JalenHurts #TySimpson #MaxxCrosby #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #CarnellTate #MakaiLemon #JaylenWaddle #SeanPayton #Broncos #Chargers #JustinHerbert #JoshAllen #JoeBurrow #Etienne #JamarrChase #JermaineJohnson #RobertSaleh #BrianDaboll #KyleShanahan #TrentWilliams #BryanCook #Tua #MalikWillis #Sirianni Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(2:00) Before the guys dive into the Top 10, they discuss the Miami Dolphins decision to trade wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos. New Miami head coach Jeff Hafley and Dolphins GM Jon-Erik Sullivan have had an eventful offseason and now have a huge $175 million dead money charge for the 2026 season. They will be in the Arch Manning sweepstakes for the No. 1 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. (5:00): Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs proved in 2025 that he still can be a productive player. Diggs was a huge help for quarterback Drake Maye en route to New England’s run to the Super Bowl. Could he be that same kind of asset for a team with a promising young signal caller like the Las Vegas Raiders and Fernando Mendoza? Would Tom Brady and Klint Kubiak bring Diggs in? Or maybe the Washington Commanders could fill the void left by Deebo Samuel and give Jayden Daniels some more help? Interested teams are likely in a wait-and-see after Diggs pled not guilty to an alleged assault on his personal chef. Will the NFL levy a punishment for violating the personal conduct policy? (6:30): The San Francisco 49ers and Kyle Shanahan’s decision to sign former Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans in free agency closed the door for a reunion with Jauan Jennings. But Jennings showed that he can be a highly productive contributor. Will a team looking for a No. 2 wideout (like the Philadelphia Eagles if A.J. Brown is traded) come knocking on Jennings’ door? (8:00): Former Cleveland Browns Pro Bowl guard Joe Bitonio has 178 career starts and will be 34 before the 2026 season kicks off, but he still has plenty of tread left on his tires. Botonio allowed just two sacks in 2025. (8:30): Pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney shows no signs of slowing down at age 33. Clowney had 8.5 sacks in 13 games for the Dallas Cowboys last season, including three against the New York Giants and Jaxson Dart in Week 18. Could he go back to the Baltimore Ravens and pair up with free-agent addition Trey Hendrickson? Or maybe Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman gives defensive coordinator Vic Fangio some pass rush help after Jaelan Phillips signed with the Carolina Panthers in free agency. (10:30): Is Deebo Samuel done? Is he too slow and too old? Well, Samuel had 72 catches and five touchdowns for the Washington Commanders last season. And he still showed off his yards after the catch prowess. (11:50): Former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku missed a fair amount of games due to injury the past two seasons and struggled amid the Browns revolving door at quarterback that included Joe Flacco, Shadeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. But the 30-year-old could be a sneaky good addition in the right environment. (13:45): Former Chargers offensive lineman Mekhi Becton couldn’t wait to get out of Los Angeles after one miserable season trying to protect Justin Herbert. Becton, the former New York Jets first-round pick, flourished transitioning from offensive tackle to guard with the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. He was a terrible fit for the Greg Roman, but would be a steal in the right system. Would a reunion in Philly make sense? (15:00): Pass rusher Joey Bosa isn’t the game-wrecking force that he used to be, but the former Pro Bowler showed plenty of flashed as a situational pass rusher with the Buffalo Bills in 2025. Bosa has stayed relatively healthy the past two seasons, too. (17:15): Will Aaron Rodgers reunion with new Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy or just retire? Rodgers proved to be a solid quarterback last season to help Mike Tomlin & Co. make the playoffs in 2025. (19:30): Left tackle Taylor Decker asked for his release from the Detroit Lions, but made it clear that he isn’t retiring. Jared Goff’s blindside protector is as tough as they come and would be a great addition in the second wave of free agency. Be sure to also check out our earlier episodes on the Top 10 BEST AND WORST MOVES IN FREE AGENCY (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-the-tackles/id1710483160?i=1000754960428) and our TOP 100 FREE AGENTS WITH CBS Sports reporter Pete Prisco (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-the-tackles/id1710483160?i=1000753760674) #NFLPodcast #SportsPodcast #NFLFreeAgency #NFLCombine #NFLDraft #NFLMockDraft #MockDraft #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #GridIronTalk #NFLChampions #ProFootballInsights #SportsAnalysis #TeamStrategies #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #DrakeMaye #NePats #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #KlintKubiak #ProFootball #SportsMedia #NFLBreakdown #FootballFans #AndyReid #KCChiefs #Vikings #Eagles #HowieRoseman #NFLScoutingCombine #ScoutingCombine #NFLProspects #MikeVrabel #AJBrown #AJBrownTrade #MaxxCrosby #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #AaronRodgers #DavidNjoku #TaylorDecker #Lions #JaredGoff #JoeyBosa #JoshAllen #JustinHerbert #HowieRoseman #JalenHurts #JaylenWaddle #SeanPayton #Broncos #JauanJennings #MikeEvans #StephonDiggs #StephDiggs #KyleShanahan #DeeboSamuel #DallasCowboys #ArchManning #MarchForArch #MalikWillis #HookEm #TexasFootball   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(2:00) Tennessee Titans signed players familiar with Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. It seemed like Titans general manager Mike Borganzi just inked deals with former New York Giants and New York Jets. The most questionable addition was former Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, who cashed in on a four-year contract for $70 million. Robinson is a solid slot receiver, but will his arrival stunt wideout Chimere Dike’s development? Or will quarterback Cam Ward now have another big weapon? Robinson cracked 1,000 yards receiving without Malik Nabers last season. (5:30) Cleveland Browns overpaid for former Los Angeles Chargers offensive lineman Zion Johnson. Johnson was part of a terrible offensive line last season that created problems for Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. Will he be able to protect Browns quarterbacks Shadeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel? Browns GM Andrew Berry and head coach Todd Monken overpaid in an affordable offensive line market. The Detroit Lions paid less for former Carolina Panthers Cade Mays. The Giants retained Jermaine Eleumunor for less. (6:45) Miami Dolphins screwed up signing Malik Willis to a big payday. GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley have ties to the Green Bay Packers, but giving Willis $45 million in guarantees wasn’t wise. Willis played well in relief of Packers starter Jordan Love, but only has six career starts. Miami will be pay $54 million to recently released Tua Tagovailoa, who signed with the Atlanta Falcons. (9:20) What were the Indianapolis Colts thinking giving QB Daniel Jones (Achilles) a two-year contract for $88 million (with a chance to reach $100 million)? Shane Steichen and GM Chris Ballard placed the transition tag on Jones before agreeing to the deal. Indy already made a huge investment in wide receiver Alec Pierce. The Colts traded away Michael Pittman to the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Pittsburgh already has a tall wideout in DK Metcalf and still don’t know if Aaron Rodgers is coming back to play for Mike McCarthy). The Colts are all-in after trading two first-round picks to the Jets for cornerback Sauce Gardner before the trade deadline last season. (13:00) The Buffalo Bills made the worst move of the offseason by overpaying for Chicago Bears receiver D.J. Moore a few days before the legal tampering period. Desperate to add a weapon for former NFL MVP Josh Allen, Bills GM Brandon Beane traded a second-round pick to Ben Johnson. Moore reunited with Joe Brady, who coached the wideout at the Carolina Panthers. The Bills should have pushed harder to trade for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown. (16:50) Jets GM Darren Mougey signed aging veterans to short-term contracts to position NYJ for the No. 1 pick a 2027 NFL Draft that will have a deep quarterback class with Texas QB Arch Manning, Oregon QB Donte Moore, South Carolina QB LaNorris Sellers, Ohio State QB Julian Sayin, Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby and Notre Dame QB CJ Carr. In the meantime, the Jets traded for Geno Smith to be the bridge quarterback. Pete Carroll still believes in Geno. The Arizona Cardinals and HC Mike LaFleur are lurking for the No. 1 pick. (20:01) New England Patriots made a smart move to sign former Jets offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker. The talented and versatile AVT is injury-prone, so Eliot Wolf and Mike Vrabel wisely put in big-time roster bonuses in his contract. The Super Bowl runner-up added former Packers WR Romeo Doubs to help replace Stefon Diggs. Is a trade for A.J. Brown inevitable? (24:12) San Francisco 49ers signed former Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans to team up with Brock Purdy, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey and Ricky Pearsall. Kyle Shanahan and GM John Lynch have still not cut Brandon Aiyuk, who is expected to join the Washington Commanders and Jayden Daniels. (27:00) Cincinnati Bengals improved their defense by landing former Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook, who was CBS Sports analyst Pete Prisco’s biggest bargain in free agency (28:35) Baltimore Ravens made the best move in free agency by backing out of the trade with the Los Vegas Raiders for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby (knee surgery). GM Eric DeCosta and head coach Jesse Minter get back two first-round picks (including No. 14 pick in 2026 NFL Draft). DeCosta might have just gotten cold feet, but pivoted to sign former Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. Raiders owner Marc Davis, Tom Brady, Raiders GM John Spytek and Klint Kubiak got word out Crosby won’t be traded now. Raiders broke the bank to land Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum. FWIW, Dr. Neal ElAttrache told ESPN insider Adam Schefter that Crosby is on schedule in his rehab. (34:20) Honorable Mention Best Move: Bears signed former Seahawks safety Coby Bryant to bolster Ben Johnson and DC Dennis Allen’s defense. And why did the Giants bring back former first-round bust Evan Neal? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(2:30): The Washington Commanders, Tennessee Titans, Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers and Las Vegas Raiders came out of the gate doling a lot of guaranteed money to free agents. With so much salary cap space at their disposal, these teams threw piles of cash at coveted free agents looking for a big payday. (3:30) The Indianapolis Colts re-signed wide receiver Alex Pierce to a monster 4-year, $114 million contract after rumors that the big-play wideout could land with the New England Patriots or San Francisco 49ers. At the end of the day Colts general manager Chris Ballard chose to make Pierce the highest paid wide receiver in NFL history even though he’s not in the same class as elite players like Cincinnati Bengals pass catcher Ja’Marr Chase, Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson, Los Angeles Rams wideout Puka Nacua or Seahawks star JSN. The Pierce signing prompted Indy to trade veteran wide receiver Michael Pittman to the Pittsburgh Steelers. (6:05) The Carolina Panthers threw a pile of money at Philadelphia Eagles edge Jaelan Phillips with the hope of improving their poor pass rush. General manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales gave Phillips a monster 4-year contract for $120 million. Although Phillips was one of Eagles defensive coordinator’s Vic Fangio’s favorites dating back to their days together with the Miami Dolphins, Philly was never going to be able to retain Phillips given all the young defensive players in line for big contract in the next year or so like Quinyon Mitchell, Jalen Carter and Cooper DeJean. Now, the question becomes whether the Panthers would draft a pass rusher with their first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft like the guys had them doing in their Mock Draft 1.0. (8:50) Tua Tagovailoa is a Day 1 winner after the Miami Dolphins announced their intention to release him. Miami will pay $54 million to Tua to go away. They will incur a $99 million dead cap hit that will be spread over two seasons after the quarterback is cut with a post-June 1 designation. To make things better, Tua agreed to sign with the Atlanta Falcons, which is loaded with talented skill-position players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts. Will Tua steer clear of his history with concussions and beat out incumbent signal caller Michael Penix, Jr? New Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski, general manager Ian Cunningham and team president Matt Ryan made a low-risk, high-reward decision to add Tagovailoa. (11:10) Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum was the best free agent in the 2026 class. The Raiders went all-in by giving the player in the pivot a three-year, $81 million contract that is effectively all guaranteed when you examine the structure of the deal. Tom Brady, general manager John Spytek and new head coach Klint Kubiak hope that Linderbaum can be a big help to No. 1 overall pick Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. History has shown that smart, veteran centers can be a massive help to rookie quarterbacks like New York Jets center Nick Mangold was to quarterback Mark Sanchez. (15:00) The Tennessee Titans were one of the big winners on the first day of the NFL legal tampering period during free agency. New head coach Robert Saleh added important defensive pieces like former Denver Broncos pass rusher John Franklin-Myers, who played for Saleh on the Jets. The Titans also added former New York Giants cornerback CorDale Flott and former New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor. New Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll was also reunited with wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. (16:50) Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs were also winners by bringing back future Hall of Fame tight end Travis Kelce, adding Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker and former New England Patriots defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga. Walker will replace Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco in the backfield. (20:00): The Cincinnati Bengals lost Trey Hendrickson, but added former Chiefs safety Bryan Cook and former Seahawks pass rusher Moye Mafe on Day 1. Head coach Zac Taylor made it clear that upgrading the defense would be a priority to help Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and the Bengals explosive offense. (22:25): Give Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones, Brian Schottenheimer and the rest of the Dallas Cowboys brass for making another trade with the Green Bay Packers. This time they got pass rusher Rashan Gary for a fourth-round pick. They traded away Micah Parsons to Green Bay before last season. They did not overpay for Trey Hendrickson or Maxx Crosby before he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens. (24:00) John Harbaugh and the New York Giants did a solid job by adding tight end Isaiah Likely to be a new weapon for quarterback Jaxson Dart. The G-Men also re-signed starting tackle Jermaine Oleumenor and added former Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. (24:45): The Miami Dolphins are losers at the outset of free agency after the Tua fiasco and overpaying for Malik Willis. The Phins also traded veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets for a seventh-round pick. Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan are in rebuilding mode. Are owner Stephen Ross and Co. tanking? (31:00) The Jets have inept owners Woody Johnson and his brother Christopher Johnson. They are eternal punchlines. General manager Darren Mougey made his ninth trade in the past year by acquiring five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and signing him to a new deal. But he’s more name than game at this point in his career. The same goes for 37-year-old former Saints linebacker Demario Davis. The Jets added cheap contracts and aging players to try to improve Aaron Glenn’s terrible defense from a year ago that had zero interceptions. (35:00) Are the Patriots winners or losers? There is still a huge void at wide receiver after Stefon Diggs was cut. The Patriots did not add Alec Pierce or Mike Evans. Does that increase the chances that Mike Vrabel, Eliot Wolf & Co. will make a trade for Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown? Or will Howie Roseman keep the disgruntled wide out and force him to play with Jalen Hurts? Either way, Drake Maye needs more help. Be sure to Subscribe, Download, Rate and Give us a 5-star Review if you’re enjoying the pod and want to spread the message. That will go a long way to helping us continue to grow. Please comment as well. We’re always looking to improve. Remember to also follow us at @Tacklespod on Instagram and TickTok… and at “Between The Tackles” on Facebook for Video Clips and highlights from each show. And be sure to Subscribe and comment on our YouTube channel as well. We’re hoping to grow our Subscriber total on YouTube to continue to give bring on insightful guests from all corners of the football world to bring you the best content we can. #NFLPodcast #NFLFree Agency #NFLCombine #NFLDraft #Podcast #SportsPodcast #NFLFootball #ProFootball, #SportsReporter #SportsMedia #SalaryCap, #FreeAgencyFrenzy #CombineAnalysis, #NFLBreakdown, #FootballPodcast, #GridironTalk #FreeAgencyanalysis #ProFootballInsights, #SportsAnalysis #TeamStrategies #FootballFans #BillsMafia #Dolphins #Rams #Bargain #Bust #TradeTalk #NFLDraft #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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? #NFLPodcast #NFLFreeAgency #NFL #FreeAgencyFrenzy #SportsPodcast #NFLCombine #NFLDraft #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #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.

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. #NFLPodcast #NFLFreeAgency #SportsPodcast #NFLCombine #NFLDraft #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #SportsMedia #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #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.

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. #NFLPodcast #NFLCombine #NFLDraft #SportsPodcast #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #SportsMedia  #FreeAgency #NFLDraft #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #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 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. #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #MockDraft #2026NFLDraft #NFLMockDraft #NFLCombine #ScoutingCombine #2026NFLCombine #Podcast #NFLFootball #Patriots #SuperBowl #SportsMedia #Raiders #TomBrady #FernandoMendoza #TySimpson #ArvellReese #JeremiahLove #CalebDowns #KenyonSadiq #JordynTyson #SeanMcVay #AndyReid #DrakeMaye #FreeAgency #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #ArchManning #CarsonBeck #Nussmeier #NationalChampions #BrendanSorsby #IndianaFootball #MakaiLemon #Widereceivers #Quarterback #AaronGlenn #Eagles #AJBrown #NotreDame #OhioState #Buckeyes #USCFootball #AlabamaFootball #MiamiFootball #TexasLonghorns #TexasLonghorns #FightingIrish #NotreDameFootball #Stafford 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 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? TikTok: @Tacklespod Instagram: @Tacklespod Twitter/X: @Tacklespod, @MMehtaSports, @BurgTheGoalie #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #Podcast #NFL #NFLFootball #HBCU #BlackHistoryMonth #HBCUSports #HBCUFootball #NAACP #CivilRights #PrairieView #PVIL #IUL #SportsMedia #JimCrow #JohnMcClain #JohnMcClainNFL #ThurgoodMarshall #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Texans #HoustonTexans #Bills #DemecoRyans #DerekStingley #CJStroud #CJStroudTrade #WillAnderson #MattBurkeDefense #Patriots #JimmyJohnson #WarrenMoon #JoeGreene #EldridgeDickey #AlDavis #KenStabler #TurkeyDayClassic #ChipGaines #JoannaGaines #HGTV #FixerUpper #MagnoliaNetwork #BaylorBears #Waco #Segregation #RaceRelations #Integrations #LBJ #BaylorBears #BaylorFootball Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.