Episodes
-
UCLA Football Journey with Stephan Blaylock, From St. John Bosco to Defensive Captain
Former UCLA safety and defensive captain Stephan Blaylock joins the Football by Nikko Show to discuss his journey from being afraid of contact in Pop Warner to earning his role at St. John Bosco, starting 44 consecutive games for UCLA and becoming one of the leaders who helped change the Bruins'...
-
Ethan Evans on His NFL Growth, Welcome-to-the-League Moment and Life as a Rams Punter
Los Angeles Rams punter Ethan Evans joins the Football by Nikko Show to discuss entering Year 4 in the NFL, how training camp has slowed down since his rookie season and the routine that keeps him consistent. Evans also shares his welcome-to-the-NFL moment in Seattle, the adjustment from Wingate...
-
Josaiah Stewart on Rams Development, Learning From Myles Garrett, and Earning His Role
Josaiah Stewart joins the FootballByNikko Show for a conversation about his development, mindset, and early transition to the Rams. We discuss his journey from being a premier pass rusher in college to joining a loaded NFL defensive line room, what he has learned from Myles Garrett and the…
more -
Rams in Australia, International Fandom, and 2026 Expectations with Reece and Hannah (@ramsdownunder)
Reece and Hannah join the FootballByNikko Show to talk about their journey as Rams fans and creators from Australia. We discuss how they found the NFL, why the Rams became their team, what it takes to follow an American football team from the other side of the world, and what the Rams playing in...
-
Rams Development, Super Bowl LVI, and Staying Ready with Darrell Henderson Jr.
Former Rams running back and Super Bowl LVI champion Darrell Henderson Jr. joins the show. We discuss his journey from Memphis to the NFL, being drafted by the Rams, learning behind Todd Gurley, and developing inside one of the league's most respected organizations. Darrell shares what he learned...
-
The State of LA Sports with Ava Brand
Ava Brand returns to the show to break down everything happening across the LA sports landscape. We get into whether the Rams are true Super Bowl contenders, Matthew Stafford's window, the impact of Davante Adams, and why the Chargers could be one of the most interesting teams in the NFL this...
-
Ranking My Top 10 Offensive Players at Every Position + 2026 First Team Offense
It’s list season. In this solo episode, I rank my top 10 players across all 11 offensive positions and build my full 2026 First Team Offense. We go position by position breaking down who made the cut, who got left off, and where projection versus production came into play. This is less about...
-
Rams Reality, DB IQ, and UCLA Football with Alex Johnson
Alex Johnson returns to the show after going from UCLA standout to navigating life in the NFL with the Giants, Colts, Titans, and now the Rams. We get into the real reality of practice squad life, constantly adapting between organizations, and what it takes mentally to keep proving yourself at…
more -
Rams Ty-meline for Simpson, Draft Recap, and the Future with Jackson Durham
In this episode, fellow Rams creator Jackson Durham joins me to dive into the Rams’ draft strategy. We break down the Ty Simpson pick, how the Rams are building for the future rather than win-now moves, and what that means for the roster timeline. We also discuss whether Matthew Stafford should...
-
"The Rams are So Lucky" Draft Episode with 1st & Tuna
We get into the Ty Simpson pick, and how the Rams continue to build through development rather than immediate impact. From late-round hits to stacking depth with upside, this is a look at how their process actually works behind the scenes. We also talk through what this means for the future, how...
-
Pass Rush, Rivalry Games, and UCLA Football with Jacob Busic
Jacob Busic joins the show to talk through his path from Navy to UCLA and now the NFL Draft, including playing in two of college football’s biggest rivalries, Army-Navy and USC-UCLA. We get into his transition between programs, the mindset behind playing defensive line, and how he approaches the...
-
Wyoming Football and Trench Play with Ben Florentine
Ben Florentine joins the show to talk through his path at Wyoming and what’s gone into his development as an NFL Draft prospect. We get into Wyoming’s identity, what it’s like playing in Laramie, and the details of trench play, from pass rush approach to what he looks for before the snap. He also...
-
Hudson Habermehl on His Walk-On Journey at UCLA and Road to the NFL
Hudson Habermehl joins the show to break down a journey that does not get talked about enough, going from a walk-on at UCLA to an NFL Draft prospect. We get into what it really takes to stay ready over multiple years, through coaching changes, different systems, injuries, and constant…
more -
Rams Uniforms, Offseason Moves, and the Draft with Allen Sales
Breaking down the Rams offseason from a super fan perspective with Allen Sales. We get into the upcoming uniform reveal, the moves that are shaping this roster, and how the draft fits into where this team is headed. Then it shifts beyond the roster, what this version of the Rams actually feels...
-
TJ Harden on UCLA, SMU, and Preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft
UCLA and SMU running back TJ Harden joins the show to talk about his football journey from Inglewood to the Bruins backfield and his breakout season with the Mustangs. We discuss his UCLA years, the transfer portal decision, running back vision, and what life looks like during the NFL pre-draft...
-
Rams & Chargers Offseason Kickoff with Ava Brand
Ava Brand joins to talk breaking into sports media before we dive into the Rams and Chargers offseason outlook. We hit quarterback questions, Combine storylines, and what both LA teams need to do to play at home in the Super Bowl next season. Plus, a Rams Mock Offseason GM segment, and more.
-
Rams RB Jarquez Hunter on vision and adjusting to NFL
Jarquez and I spoke about adjusting to McVay's scheme, what it is about the Rams coaching staff that helps players develop, what one game at Auburn all Rams fans should watch, and his off the field interests.
-
Kamren Kinchens on His “Welcome to the NFL” Moment and Giving Back
Kamren and I talked about his welcome to the NFL moment, covering different archetypes of receiver, and how the Rams defenese is bringing momentum into this year
-
Omar Speights on Underdog Mentality and the Rams’ Defensive Culture
Caught up with Omar Speights after camp practice to talk about the underdogs in the Rams LB room, the Rams' team culture, and his sack on Jalen Hurts in his hometown of Philadelphia
-
Jordan Whittington on His Year 2 Leap and Earning Trust in the Rams Offense
Had the pleasure of speaking to Jordan after Rams camp about the Rams player development, the great WR rooms he's been a part of, and what parts of his game he's more confident in.
-
How Jason Nam Became One of the Most Recognizable Rams Fans
Jason Nam (@OGNam213) went from buying season tickets in 2016 to becoming one of the most recognizable Rams fans in LA. In this episode he shares how the Ramily brought him to life, from organizing a 38-bus playoff takeover in Arizona to handing Jared Verse a chain that became part of a sack...
-
Rams LB Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. on Mindset, Madden, and Making Plays
From draft day emotions to his dream jersey swap, Rams LB Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. shares the mindset he’s bringing to LA, what he learned from his time at Arkansas and Ole Miss, and how he wants to be remembered when it’s all said and done.
-
Rams DL Larrell Murchison on His Breakout with the Rams and Overcoming Adversity
Rams defensive lineman Larrell Murchison joins the show for a raw, inspiring conversation on his journey from small-town North Carolina to making a statement in LA. He opens up about his breakthrough Rams debut, learning from legends like Aaron Donald and Sean McVay, overcoming injuries, and...
-
Bobby Brown III on Replacing Aaron Donald and Leading the Rams’ New Defense
Bobby and I talk about replacing Aaron Donald, getting to the QB, and the energy on the Rams young defense this year
-
Kamren Curl on Joining the Rams and Filling a Veteran Leadership Role
Kam and I talk all the new DB additions, trying to make up for the loss of Aaron Donald, and which alternate uniform he'd like to see.
-
Ronnie Rivers on the Rams Running Back Room and Preparing for the Season
Ronnie Rivers discusses the Rams running back room, the impact of the new-look offensive line, and his approach to the upcoming season. He shares how he is working to elevate his game and earn a larger role in the offense. An inside look at preparation and competition heading into kickoff.
-
Quentin Lake on the Rams Defense, Training Camp Battles, and Life Off the Field
Rams safety Quentin Lake talks about forcing turnovers, competing against Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua in practice, and the intensity of training camp. He shares insight into the defense’s mindset heading into the season. Plus, a look at his involvement with the team beyond football.
-
Rams, Eagles, Packers; Who's a contender? with John Vogel
In this episode @draftvogel and I break down each teams roster, where they have strengths and where they could use some depth, as well as picking a free agent that could help out the teams.
-
Brittain Brown on Returning from Injury and His Role with the Raiders
Brittain and I talk about his reaction to Deshaun Foster being promoted at UCLA, his return from injury, take some Raider Fan questions and more!
-
UCLA DB Alex Johnson on Preparing for the NFL Draft and more
Alex and I talk about being a student athlete at UCLA, break down his scoop and score vs USC, and how he's prepping for the draft.
-
Greg Dulcich on Year 2 Goals and His Journey from UCLA to the NFL
Broncos tight end Greg Dulcich reflects on UCLA’s culture shift, scoring his first NFL touchdown in front of his family in Los Angeles, and the goals he set for Year 2. He shares insight into his transition to the league and what he wants to improve moving forward. Plus, he answers questions...
-
Marcus Haynes on His Position Change and Pro Day Preparation
Old Dominion defensive end Marcus Haynes discusses his transition from wide receiver to defensive end and how it reshaped his path to the NFL. He shares insight into preparing for the draft and his pro day, along with the mindset required to make the position switch. An inside look at a…
more -
Michael Ezeike on UCLA’s Culture Shift and Preparing for the Draft
UCLA tight end Michael Ezeike discusses the culture shift under Chip Kelly, his transition from wide receiver to tight end, and how he is preparing for the NFL Draft. He also answers questions submitted by Bruins fans about his time in Westwood and his path forward.
-
Ace Eley on His Georgia Tech Career and Path to the NFL
Georgia Tech linebacker Ace Eley discusses his ability to force fumbles and create turnovers, along with what he learned from coaches at the NFLPA Bowl. He also shares details about his pre-draft training and preparation for the next level.
-
Cincinnati OG Jeremy Cooper on NFLPA Bowl Week and NFL Mentors
Cincinnati offensive lineman Jeremy Cooper discusses his college career, experience at the NFLPA Bowl, and preparation for the NFL Draft. He also shares what he learned from former teammates who have already made the jump to the league.
-
Ronnie Brown on His Season with Tyson Bagent and Path to the NFL
Shepherd running back Ronnie Brown discusses representing his program at the NFLPA Bowl and preparing for the NFL Draft. He also reflects on his breakout season alongside quarterback Tyson Bagent and the mindset that drives his effort on every snap.
-
Dalton Godfrey on Draft Prep and the Art of Long Snapping
South Dakota long snapper Dalton Godfrey discusses preparing for the NFL Draft, his experience at the NFLPA Bowl, and balancing academics as a student-athlete. He also shares which NFL long snappers he studies and how they influence his technique.
-
Dylan Classi on Princeton Football and Preparing for the Draft
Princeton wide receiver Dylan Classi discusses balancing academics and football as an Ivy League student-athlete while preparing for the NFL Draft. He also breaks down his route running technique and the areas of his game he is working to improve.
-
Miami/UCLA DL Mitchell Agude on His Draft Journey
Defensive lineman Mitchell Agude reflects on his time at UCLA, including what it meant to play at the Rose Bowl one final time. He also discusses competing against former teammates during NFLPA Bowl practices and preparing for the next step in his career.
-
Michigan P Brad Robbins on NFLPA Bowl Week and Preparation
Michigan punter Brad Robbins discusses practices during NFLPA Bowl week and what it meant to represent the Wolverines on a national stage. He reflects on his college career and the opportunity to showcase his skills for NFL teams.
-
Malik Cunningham on His Journey and NFL Aspirations
Louisville quarterback Malik Cunningham discusses receiving a Senior Bowl invite, his relationship with fellow Louisville alum Lamar Jackson, and preparing for the next level. He also shares his thoughts on Tutu Atwell and the transition from college to the NFL.
-
Isaiah Bolden on NFLPA Bowl Practices and His Returner Versatility
Jackson State defensive back and return specialist Isaiah Bolden discusses practices at the NFLPA Bowl and showcasing his versatility on special teams. He shares how his return ability adds value to his game as he prepares for the NFL Draft.
-
Stanford S Kendall Williamson on Preparing for the NFL Draft
Stanford safety Kendall Williamson discusses what it means to compete at the NFLPA Bowl and how he is preparing for the NFL Draft. He also reflects on balancing academics and football as a student-athlete at Stanford and how that experience shaped him.
-
Thomas Rush on NFLPA Bowl Week and Lessons Beyond Football
Minnesota defensive lineman Thomas Rush discusses his experience at the NFLPA Bowl, including practices, competition, and adjusting to an all-star environment. He also shares what the week taught him about personal growth and life beyond football.
-
UCLA TE Michael Ezeike on His Final Season and NFLPA Bowl Experience
UCLA tight end Michael Ezeike discusses stepping into a leadership role during his final season and how he prepared for the NFL Draft. He also shares what the NFLPA Bowl experience was like and how it helped his transition toward the next level.
-
UCLA OL Jon Gaines II on His Bruins Career and NFLPA Bowl Week
UCLA offensive lineman Jon Gaines II discusses what it meant to play at the Rose Bowl one final time and reflect on his Bruins career. He also talks about blocking for some of the top running backs in college football and his experience during NFLPA Bowl week.
-
Nebraska DE Garrett Nelson on Competing at the NFLPA Bowl
Nebraska defensive end Garrett Nelson joins a joint interview at the NFLPA Bowl to discuss competing against top talent and the mindset he brings to every snap. He also shares the pass rushers he studies and how they influence his approach on the field.
-
Cal S Daniel Scott on Preparing for the Draft and Studying Top Safeties
Cal safety Daniel Scott discusses preparing for the NFL Draft and Senior Bowl, studying top players at his position, and how defenses are evolving at the pro level. He also shares the mindset required to succeed as a professional athlete and the work behind his transition to the next level.
-
Jack Snyder on Joining the Rams and Adjusting to an NFL Locker Room
Rams rookie offensive lineman Jack Snyder discusses his path from San Jose State to the NFL and adjusting to life in a new locker room. He shares his impressions of the team culture and what it’s like joining a contender in Los Angeles.
-
My Top 10 Defensive & Special Teams Players At Each Position in 2022
In this episode, I break down my rankings for defensive players next year. I also cover my top 5 special teams players currently #puntersarepeopletoo. If you disagree with any of my rankings, tweet me @footballbynikko to let me know what you would change.