Between the Tackles podcast artwork

PODCAST · sports

Between the Tackles

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!

  1. 127

    NFL Insider Ian Rapoport on Aaron Rodgers saga, Mike Vrabel & Dianna Russini scandal, AJ Brown trade details and other breaking news

    NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport (@Rapsheet on X) shares intel on the biggest NFL breaking news like the Aaron Rodgers standoff with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Will Rodgers re-unite with Mike McCarthy after the two of them won a Super Bowl long ago with the Green Bay Packers? Or will life without Mike Tomlin also include a new quarterback? Rapoport also takes a deep dive into the impending trade that will send Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Super Bowl runner-up New England Patriots where he will be re-united with Mike Vrabel. How does Brown really feel about Jalen Hurts? Speaking of Vrabel, what is Rapoport hearing about Vrabel’s job security in the midst of the Page 6 scandal between Vrabel and former NFL Insider of The Athletic Dianna Russini? Will Robert Kraft and Jonathan Kraft stick with Vrabel no matter what or is there a scenario when the Patriots owner would fire the reigning NFL Coach of the Year? Rapoport then discusses what’s next for free agent wide receivers Stefon Diggs, Deebo Samuel and Tyreek Hill, why the San Francisco 49ers still have Brandon Aiyuk on the roster and does Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens want to be traded? Rapsheet discusses more free agents like Taylor Decker, Joey Bosa and others before giving his Super Bowl prediction. Rapoport also talks about teaming up with ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter before trying to answer an impossible NFL trivia question. A lively conversation with one of the best NFL news breakers.   Highlights: (2:30): Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers standoff. (8:45) Can Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers co-exist and thrive after butting heads with the Green Bay Packers? (9:40): A.J. Brown trade saga. What draft picks will Philadelphia Eagles get from the New England Patriots?   (12:00) How AJ Brown really feels about Jalen Hurts (14:15): Why does Howie Roseman want to trade AJ Brown? (17:31): Will Mike Vrabel be the Patriots head coach by the start of 2026 regular season amid Dianna Russini scandal? What Robert Kraft really thinks. (18:51): What was Rapoport’s reaction to the criticism at NFL Insiders after the Russini scandal? (26:00): What does Rapoport think of the Vrabel and Russini scandal? (27:00) Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and Tyreek Hill’s futures. (32:25): Does George Pickens want to be traded by the Dallas Cowboys? (34:00): The real story behind Taylor Decker’s divorce from the Detroit Lions. (35:45): How the NFL Network and ESPN will work together after the merger. What’s it like working with ESPN Insider Adam Schefter (37:51): Super Bowl prediction, a surprise team and an impossible trivia question. #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #MockDraft #2026NFLDraft #Vrabel #Russini #MikeVrabel #DiannaRussini #VrabelRussini #Page6 #AaronRodgers #PittsburghSteelers #Steelers #OmarKhan #MikeMcCarthy #Eagles #AJBrown #HowieRoseman #NePatriots #NePats #NFLMockDraft #NFLCombine #ScoutingCombine #2026NFLCombine #Podcast #NFLFootball #FreeAgency #Patriots #SuperBowl #SportsMedia #Raiders #TomBrady #DrakeMaye #FreeAgency #SportsJournalism #BehindTheScenes #FootballTalk #Jets #AFCEast #Bills #BillsMafia #Dolphins #NationalChampions #BrendanSorsby #IndianaFootball #MakaiLemon #Widereceivers #Quarterback #Gridirontalk #NFLChampions #ProFootballTalk #ProFootballNetwork #PhinsUp #RollTide #TeamStrategies #NFLBreakdown #HowieRoseman #NFLProspects #MikeVrabel #AJBrown #AJBrownTrade #HowieRoseman #JalenHurts #JoshAllen #MichaelPittman #RollTide #GermieBernard #Niners #DeeboSamuel #BrandonAiyuk #TyreekHill Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. 126

    Patriots reporter Karen Guregian on fallout of Mike Vrabel & Dianna Russini scandal, AJ Brown trade impact and other news from wild New England offseason

    Check out other recent videos on the 2026 NFL Draft and Free Agency: 1)     Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated shares 2026 NFL Draft intel, AJ Brown news, Vrabel nuggets (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFT8yZgaRUY) 2)     2026 NFL Draft Round 1: Winners, losers, grades and analysis for every team https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bFiKMnnur4 3)     Entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee) on owning the New York Jets, growth of Vayner Sports and why kindness every day matters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mH85OjB-sHk 4)     2026 NFL Draft: Ranking Top 10 Running Back Prospects https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5R0HIPmAqI 5)     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 5️ RATING on Apple: https://bit.ly/4s3hZ8Y and Spotify: https://bit.ly/4dIiVMd FOLLOW & STAY CONNECTED IG and TikTok: @TacklesPod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manishmehta23/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_feed%3BJj4R8RWZS5CBXZ46EoWRZQ%3D%3D Longtime New England Patriots columnist and reporter Karen Guregian of Mass Live (@KGuregian on X) takes a deep dive into how the New York Post Page 6 story on head coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL Insider from the Athletic Dianna Russini will impact the team in the coming months and the 2026 NFL season. Guregian discusses her recent story on MassLive.com about how Patriots legends and Hall of Famers like Rodney Harrison, Vince Wilfork and Devin McCourty think Vrabel will navigate the scandal  (https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2026/05/why-patriots-legends-believe-mike-vrabel-will-survive-dianna-russini-scandal-karen-guregian.html). How will Vrabel’s action play in the Patriots locker room? Will players forgive and forget or will there be a segment of them that will question the coach who led them to a Super Bowl appearance last season. Guregian conveys a story from McCourty comparing the distinct differences between Vrabel and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick… and why it will be more challenging for Vrabel to reestablish his connection with his players. Guregian talks about whether “Vrabel-lite” can still thrive at the highest level. Will critics pile on if the Patriots struggle early in the 2026 season? Guregian is the longest tenured female reporter on the Patriots beat. She talks candidly about whether Vrabel’s legacy has been tarnished given his previous comments in an ESPN story about respecting the hurdles that female journalists have to clear covering the NFL. Guregian also is open about whether Russini’s actions made it more difficult for women to gain respect in this industry. Will Vrabel resign if things become untenable? Does Robert Kraft have any desire to part ways with him? After the Vrabel talk, Guregian dives into the A.J. Brown trade and how the soon-to-be former Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl wide receiver can impact Patriots quarterback Drake Maye and the offense. How will offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels feature and work with Brown? The guys wrap up with talk about the Patriots 2026 NFl Draft class highlighted by Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu and Illinois pass rusher Gabe Jacas. What does Lomu’s arrival mean for left tackle Will Campbell? Finally, will Kayshon Boutte be traded? A thoughtful conversation with one of the respected voices covering the New England Patriots.   Highlights: (2:53): What Devin McCourty, Vince Wilford and Rodney Harrison said about Mike Vrabel (7:30): What if the Patriots get off to a slow start in the 2026 regular season with a tougher schedule? (19:55): Can “Vrabel-Lite” be successful? (11:30): Difference between Vrabel and Bill Belichick when navigating scandal (14:35): Mike Vrabel is not a victim (19:00): Did Dianna Russini make it harder for female reporters to gain respect now? (21:15): Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot and Shilo Sanders controversy (27:55): Are people going too far with the jokes about Vrabel and Russini? (30:11): Any scenario where Vrabel resigns as Patriots coach? (32:00): AJ Brown trade and impact. Who has leverage now? (40:00): Can Josh McDaniels co-exist with a strong-willed wide receiver like AJ Brown? (42:30): 2026 NFL Draft class analysis: Caleb Lomu and Gabe Jacas. Impact on Will Campbell? (50:45): Kayshon Boutte’s future with Patriots? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 125

    Albert Breer of Sports Ilustrated shares behind-the-scenes 2026 NFL Draft intel, A.J. Brown news, Mike Vrabel update and more!

    Sports Illustrated senior reporter Albert Breer joins the pod to talk all things NFL. He opens the show by breaking down the Los Angeles Rams decision to draft Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 over pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. Breer takes us behind the scenes in the Rams thought process and why Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead decided to take Matthew Stafford’s backup instead of a player who can help the Rams get to the Super Bowl in 2027. What is the NFL comp that league decision makers have given Breer about Simpson? Then Breer dives into the Philadelphia Eagles trade for Minnesota Vikings pass rusher Jonathan Greenard during the draft. Why did Eagles GM Howie Roseman do it? Speaking of the Eagles, Breer explains what Philly’s decision to draft USC Makai Lemon means for the future of star wide receiver A.J. Brown? Breer discusses what the likely trade compensation will be between the Eagles and New England Patriots? Are the Eagles guaranteed to receive a first-round pick in return for A.J. Brown? Breer talks about what Brown really thinks of Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts too. The guys turn the discussion to the ongoing saga involving Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL Insider of the Athletic Dianna Russini. Breer discusses whether an NFL reporter can influence a player’s trade value in the wake of recent information regarding Russini’s reporting on the Julio Jones trade market several years ago that resulted in the Atlanta Falcons dealing Jones to the Tennessee Titans, who were coached by Mike Vrabel at the time. Back to the 2026 NFL Draft, Breer talks about the player that the Rams would have likely traded up for if he had slipped. Breer gives his best picks on Day 2 (second round and third round) of the NFL Draft. He also reveals who his favorite player of Day 3 was. Breer discusses how New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn helped themselves in the draft. He then gives a word of caution on the supposedly deep quarterback class in the 2027 NFL Draft. Breer shares that Oregon quarterback Donte Moore would be his top quarterback prospect right now ahead of others, including Texas quarterback Arch Manning. Breer gives insight why Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs drafted LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier. Then he  discusses Giants general manager Joe Schoen’s future and whether Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux will be traded? Breer wraps up with insight on new Raiders cornerback Jermod McCoy, who fell to Day 3, why the Steelers drafted Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (and the former NFL star that scouts have compared him to) and of the NFL will actually have replacement officials in 2027.   . Highlights: (2:00) Why the Rams drafted Alabama QB Ty Simpson (17:15) Behind the scenes on the Eagles trade for Vikings pass rusher Jonathan Greenard (19:55): A.J. Brown trade compensation that Patriots will give to Howie Roseman and Eagles (36:00): What’s net for Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel? (42:50): Rams interested in trading up for a stud in Round 1 (43:30): Eagles tried to trade up for offensive tackle. (47:18): Best Picks on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft (49:35): Best pick of Day 3 (54:00) New York Jets draft (58:00) Quarterback class in 2027 NFL Draft. Who’s No. 1? (1 hour, 1 min): Future for New York Giants GM Joe Schoen. Kayvon Thibodeaux trade? (1 hour, 6 min): Jermod McCoy (1 hour, 8 min): Why Steelers drafted Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (1 hour, 10 min): Replacement officials in 2026? #SportsPodcast #NFLPodcast #NFL #NFLDraft #MockDraft #2026NFLDraft #Vrabel #Russini #MikeVrabel #DiannaRussini #VrabelRussini #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 #DrewAllar #JermodMcCoy #DonteMoore #ArchManning #KayvonThibodeaux #GarrettNussmeier #ZachariahBranch #DAngelo Ponds #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.

  4. 124

    2026 NFL DRAFT ROUND 1 GRADES & ANALYSIS: Winners, Losers, Steals and Value Picks

    The guys discuss the latest developments in the scandal surrounding New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL Insider for ESPN and The Athletic Dianna Russini. Vrabel will not be with the Patriots for Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft to attend counseling and be with his family. Have his recent public statements done more harm than good in the wake of more photos from TMZ and the New York Post? Burg and Manish move on to discuss a wild first round of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh on Thursday night that featured eight trades with five of the final seven picks being dealt. The guys give their winners, losers, surprises, steals and value picks in Round 1. Six teams drafted two players (Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins). The New York Jets traded back into the first round to give them three first-rounders (Texas Tech edge David Bailey, Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper, Jr.). Eight teams did not have a first-round pick, including the Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals (after trading for Giants DL Dexter Lawrence), Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonsville Jaguars. The Buffalo Bills (traded down three times) and San Francisco 49ers traded out of the first round on Thursday night. How will prospects like Jeremiyah Love, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Monroe Freeling, Omar Cooper Jr., Francis Mauigoa, Reuben Bain, Akheem Mesidor, Spencer Fano, Mansoor Delane, Spencer Fano, Caleb Lomu, T.J. Parker, Keldric Faulk, Max Iheanachor, Kadyen Proctor, , Dillon Thieneman, Blake Miller, Olaivavega Ioane, Ty Simpson, Jadarian Price, Peter Woods (Clemson), OG Keylan Rutledge (Georgia Tech), KC Concepcion, Malachi Lawrence, Caleb Banks and Keldric Faulk do at the next level? The guys discuss a pair of value picks before jumping into five winners. Then, it’s time to talk about five losers in the draft. Finally, Burg and Manish give grades for each pick of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Along the way, they discuss the reality that Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown will likely be traded (to the New England Patriots) after Howie Roseman traded up for USC wide receiver Makai Lemon. And they dive into why the Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams drafted Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson when they could have given reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford some immediate help to make another Super Bowl run. There are also plenty of talented players left for Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft like Jermod McCoy, Colton Hood, Denzel Boston, Cashius Howell, Zion Young, C.J. Allen, CB Avieon Terrell, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, DT Kayden McDonald, Edge T.J. Parker, G Emmanuel Pregnon, LB Jake Golday, DT Christian Miller and others.   Highlights: (2:00) Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini updates (15:30): Value Picks (19:00) Winners of the first round (33:20) Losers of the first round (47:00) Grades for every pick and every team #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.

  5. 123

    Gary Vee on his plan to own the New York Jets, Secrets to growing VaynerSports, No-Fear leadership and Life advice

    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.

  6. 122

    2026 NFL Mock Draft: Five Trades! Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles make shocking deals

    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.

  7. 121

    2026 NFL Draft: Ranking the TOP 10 Running Back Prospects with player comps and team targets, plus recent NFL headlines

    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.

  8. 120

    Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini controversy, Troy Aikman & Tom Brady NFL loophole and Jalen Hurts bashing

    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.

  9. 119

    Miami Dolphins exec Jon Robinson on preparing prospects for NFL Draft interviews, working with Bill Belichick, drafting Gronk & more

    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.

  10. 118

    CBS Sports reporter Dave Richard talks Fantasy Football Winners & Losers after NFL Free Agency and before 2026 NFL Draft

    (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.

  11. 117

    NFL MOCK DRAFT 2.0 after Free Agency: Jeremiyah Love shocker, A.J. Brown traded, Jets surprises

    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.

  12. 116

    2026 NFL FREE AGENCY: Ranking the Top 10 Unsigned Free Agents left on the market

    (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. 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  13. 115

    NFL FREE AGENCY RECAP: Top 10 Best and Worst Moves; Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson fiasco, biggest surprise signing nobody is talking about

    (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.

  14. 114

    NFL FREE AGENCY FRENZY: Day 1 Winners and Losers, Dolphins land Malik Willis, Raiders and Titans break the bank

    (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.

  15. 113

    CBS Sports reporter Pete Prisco shares his Top 100 NFL Free Agents, biggest bargains, busts and AJ Brown and Maxx Crosby trades

    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.

  16. 112

    Longtime NFL executive Samir Suleiman reveals secrets of NFL Free Agency, salary cap myths and which players will be overpaid

    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.

  17. 111

    2026 NFL Combine Winners & Losers: Best Buy-Low draft prospects that smart teams will target

    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.

  18. 110

    NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Jets make shocking moves, steal for Saints, Bills get a freak

    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.

  19. 109

    Legendary NFL reporter John McClain on his new documentary on Texas football segregation, running naked if Texans QB C.J. Stroud is traded and more!

    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.

  20. 108

    Greg Bedard on Patriots offseason moves, NFLPA report card debate, AJ Brown trade, Stefon Diggs future, Drake Maye, Super Bowl fallout and more

    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.

  21. 107

    Super Bowl LX Recap: Sam Darnold’s Seahawks roll past Drake Maye’s Patriots

    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? #SuperBowl #SBLX #Patriots #Seahawks #Darnold #Maye Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  22. 106

    Super Bowl LX Preview: Will Drake Maye’s Patriots upset Sam Darnold’s Seahawks?

    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.

  23. 105

    Sports gambling expert John Hansen talks prop bets for Patriots-Seahawks Super Bowl LX, Darnold, Maye and more

    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.

  24. 104

    QB guru Jordan Palmer on Sam Darnold’s wild ride and Drake Maye’s rise before Super Bowl LX between Seahawks and Patriots

    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.

  25. 103

    Peter King on Bill Belichick’s Pro Football Hall of Fame snub, Patriots-Seahawks Super Bowl LX matchups and Surprising Head Coach Hires

    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.

  26. 102

    Boston Globe NFL writer Ben Volin talks Belichick, Maye, Vrabel and Patriots-Broncos AFC Championship Game

    Manish and Burg interview Ben Volin from the Boston Globe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  27. 101

    AFC and NFC Championship Games Preview: Drake Maye's Patriots vs Broncos; Rams-Seahawks showdown

    Burg and Manish preview the NFL conference championship games. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  28. 100

    NFL Divisional Round recap: Sean McDermott fired after Bills falls short; Caleb Williams runs out of magic against Rams

    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.

  29. 99

    NFL Divisional Round Preview: No. 1 seeds Broncos and Seahawks join the fray; Drake Maye faces scary Texans defense and Caleb Williams tries to outduel Rams

    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.

  30. 98

    Former Titans G.M. Jon Robinson talks Mike Vrabel, the secret to head coaching interviews, behind-the-scenes working with Bill Belichick and drafting Rob Gronkowski

    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.

  31. 97

    NFL Super Wildcard Recap: Josh Allen, Drake Maye shine; Jalen Hurts and Justin Herbert flop

    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.

  32. 96

    A Playoff Conversation with Lorenzo Neal

    Lorenzo Neal joins the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  33. 95

    Super Wildcard Weekend Preview: Drake Maye, Josh Allen, Matthew Stafford take the field

    Burg and Manish preview wildcard weekend! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  34. 94

    NFL Week 18 Review: Panthers punch their ticket and the Eagles blow the 2 seed

    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 for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  35. 93

    NFL Week 18 Preview: Is this it for Aaron Rodgers and other playoff hopefuls?

    Manish, Burg and Joe preview and extremely important week 18 in the NFL. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  36. 92

    CBS Sideline Reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala

    CBS NFL sideline reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala give a behind-the-scenes look at gameday, the pressures of delivering important live news and thriving as a woman in a male-dominant industry. Aditi shares fun stories about her weekly prep and juggling motherhood and her high-profile profession. A must-listen for all NFL fans and followers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  37. 91

    NFL Week 17 Review: Josh Allen comes up short and Derrick Henry dominates

    Joe rips an epic solo pod... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  38. 90

    NFL Week 17 Preview: Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen face off

    Manish, Burg and Joe preview a very important NFL week ahead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  39. 89

    Week 16 Review Lawrence shines and Rodgers makes his move

    Burg, Manish and Joe break down an implication riddled week 16. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  40. 88

    Week 16 Preview and a shift in the power rankings

    Manish and Burg blaze a trail without Joe and tackle this weeks massive shift in the power rankings. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  41. 87

    Panthers legend Jonathan Stewart joins the show

    The guys welcome on Panthers all time leading rusher Jonathan Stewart Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  42. 86

    NFL Week 15 Recap Allen's comback and the Chiefs dynasty ends

    The guys pick their winners and losers from week 15. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  43. 85

    NFL Week 15 Preview and Coaches with NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero

    Tom Pelissaro Interview Power Rankings Week 15 Picks Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  44. 84

    NFL Week 14 Recap: Jones is down and Burrow might be out

    Bills vs Bengals Ravens vs Steelers Saints vs Bucs Jags vs Colts Jets vs Dolphins Bears vs Packers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  45. 83

    NFL Week 14 Preview: Maye, Stafford, Prescott, who ya got?

    NFL Power Rankings Burg's picks Joe's picks Manish's picks Fantasy Sleeper Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  46. 82

    Stafford cracks and Rodgers breaks

    Lions vs. Packers Colts vs. Texans Steelers vs. Bills Seahawks vs. Vikings Jaguars vs. Titans Panthers vs. Rams Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  47. 81

    Thankful for Mahomes, Burrow and Lamar playing on Thanksgiving!

    Bucs season ends on SNF Snoozer on MNF Week 13 Picks Power Rankings get... passionate Fantasy Sleepers of the week Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  48. 80

    Mahomes and The Chiefs stay alive plus other Winners and Loser from week 12

    Chiefs vs Colts Jags vs Cardinals Bears vs Steelers Vikings vs Packers Patriots vs Bengals Eagles vs Cowboys Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  49. 79

    Ja'mar Chase spits, Shedeur Sanders starts

    Jamar Chase Suspended Is Shedeur ready? Burg Defends his Texans Pick and bills hatred A shuffle of the top 5 Power Rankings is revealed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  50. 78

    076: NFL Week 11 Part 2!

    The Between the Tackle's inaugural 2 podcast week!!!!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

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!

HOSTED BY

Eric "Burg" Burgess, Manish Mehta

Produced by BurgTheGoalie

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Between the Tackles have?

Between the Tackles currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Between the Tackles about?

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...

How often does Between the Tackles release new episodes?

Between the Tackles has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Between the Tackles?

You can listen to Between the Tackles on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Between the Tackles?

Between the Tackles is created and hosted by Eric "Burg" Burgess, Manish Mehta.
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