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The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL podcast cover art

The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

ByThe Athletic
1119 episodes

Podcast Summary

The Athletic’s flagship NFL podcast covers the league like only The Athletic can. Host Robert Mays and co-host Derrik Klassen dive into the biggest stories, break down the Xs and Os, tackle the ins and outs of roster building, follow the details of why we all love this sport, and have plenty of fun along the way, bringing the expertise necessary to cover the NFL at the highest level. Whether it’s happening on the field or behind the scenes, you’ll get an in-depth look at all things NFL on The Athletic Football Show, available wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#1

Defensive players set to make a leap in 2025

Whenever a player makes a leap—whether that's bad to average, average to good, good to great, or great to elite—it can change his team. Just think of guys like Zack Baun and Derek Stingley last season. Who might make a leap this year akin to what those two did in 2024? Derrik Klassen and Diante Lee from The Ringer highlight their top defensive breakout players on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownDaiyan HenleyEdgerrin CooperNate WigginsLaiatu LatuKobie TurnerBrian BranchWill AndersonCooper DeJeanHonorable mentionHosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Diante LeeExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Diante on Bluesky: @diantelee.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Diante on X: @DianteLeeFBTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-06-05•1hr 7mins
#2

Fantasy winners and losers from the 2025 NFL offseason

June is here, and with June comes all things summer. Sunshine, trips to the pool, cookouts...and fantasy football. That's right, fantasy football season is upon us, and we're celebrating that on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Michael Beller sits in once again for the vacationing Robert Mays, and he's joined by Jake Ciely, The Athletic's senior fantasy writer, to dig into the biggest moves of the offseason from a fantasy perspective.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Michael Beller and Jake CielyExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Jake on Bluesky: @allinkid.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Jake on X: @allinkidTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-06-04•1hr 5mins
#3

Monday Mailbag: Frankenstein's NFL team owner, the Colts' path at quarterback, Jonathan Gannon's Cardinals, and more

How does one determine what is or isn't a successful move in free agency? Which teams could surprise us this year by ending up with top-10 play callers on both sides of the ball? How should we feel about the Jonathan Gannon era in Arizona thus far? Those are just three of the questions Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen get into on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Plus, the guys answer an email of the year candidate weighing the pros and cons of potential fictitious owners.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Michael BellerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-06-02•1hr 5mins
#4

Anthony Richardson vs. Daniel Jones highlights the NFL's QB battles

We've got some honest-to-goodness quarterback battles to look forward to this summer, a few of which have real stakes for their teams and the league at large. Derrik Klassen, Mike Sando and Michael Beller dig into those battles—including the Colts, Giants, Saints, Browns and Steelers—and also touch on a few QB situations that aren't battles but they're still watching closely on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Michael Beller and Mike SandoExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Sando on Bluesky: @sandonfl.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Sando on X: @SandoNFLTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-29•1hr 3mins
#5

Offseason Buy or Sell: The Contenders

We've arrived at our fourth and final episode in the Offseason Buy or Sell series, and this is the big one. Seven of the eight teams that played in the Divisional Round of the playoffs last season are in this episode, and the eighth is a perennial contender that was ravaged by injury in 2024? So did the Rams, Commanders, Lions, Ravens, Bills and Chiefs do enough to win, say, another game or two in January of this coming season? Can the 49ers get back on track? Did the Eagles do enough to protect their crown? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen make buy or sell calls on those eight teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-27•1hr 21mins
#6

Monday Mailbag: Player/team personality fits, Justin Jefferson's unique traits, the outlook for an all-rookie team, and more

We're digging into the mailbag on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. This time around, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen tackle questions on how a team made up entirely of rookies would fare in the NFL, how the original Antonio Brown/Raiders trade affected the league, what makes Justin Jefferson so special, and a whole lot more.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Michael BellerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-26•58mins
#7

Lingering questions, episode 2: Bryce Young's turnaround, the Chargers' talent, the Seahawks' defense's breakout

Bryce Young put himself on the right track in the second half of last season. The Chargers shortcomings in 2024 owed to a lack of talent. The Seahawks defense is primed for a breakout in 2025. That's all true, right? Right?!? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen answer three more of last season's lingering questions on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-22•1hr 15mins
#8

Offseason Buy or Sell: The Playoff Hopefuls

Seven of the eight teams in this edition of Offseason Buy or Sell made the playoffs last year, and the one that didn't, the Bengals, had one of the best offenses in the league. In other words, each of these teams goes into this season with realistic playoff hopes, and some of them are harboring even bigger dreams than that. So how do we feel about what they all did this offseason? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen make buy or sell calls on the Steelers, Vikings, Bengals, Buccaneers, Packers, Broncos, Texans and Chargers on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-20•1hr 25mins

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#9

Monday Mailbag: Best second sports for NFL players, the meaning of 'scheme,' BYO team brain trust, and more

Ever wonder what would be the most beneficial second sport for a future NFL player to play on their way to the league? Ever think about how you'd build your own team brain trust if you couldn't poach anyone currently in the job? Ever consider which current coach could've gotten the most out of Jay Cutler? Good news, this edition of the TAFS mailbag is for you! Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen answer each of those questions, and a whole bunch more.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Michael BellerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-19•1hr 3mins
#10

Lingering questions, part 1: The Titans offensive infrastructure, Jordan Love's missing leap, and Marvin Harrison Jr.'s rookie season

There's only so much time to indulge our curiosities during the NFL season. What that means is that a number of questions we have in the moment go unexamined because we have to, you know, pay attention to the games that are actually happening. May and June, though? That's when we can let our minds wander. And that's exactly what we're going to do in our Lingering Questions series on The Athletic Football Show. In episode one of the series, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen ask and answer the following questions: What sort of offensive infrastructure is Cam Ward getting dropped into in Tennessee? Why didn't Jordan Love make the leap in 2024? Why did Marvin Harrison Jr. fall short of expectations in his rookie season?Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-15•1hr 25mins
#11

Trey Hendrickson seizes the narrative

The impasse between Trey Hedrickson and the Bengals took its most bizarre turn yet on Tuesday when the star pass rusher staged an impromptu press conference on the practice field at the team's facility during OTAs. The Athletic's Bengals beat writer Paul Dehner Jr. was there, and he joins Robert Mays on this episode of The Athletic Football Show to discuss exactly what happened, how it all transpired, how things got to this point, and, ultimately, where it all goes from here.Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik KlassenWith: Paul Dehner Jr.Executive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Paul on Bluesky: @pauldehnerjr.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Paul on X: @pauldehnerjrTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-14•43mins
#12

Offseason Buy or Sell: The NFL's Middle Class

The next step up the Offseason Buy or Sell ladder takes us to the NFL's middle class. These are teams that oddsmakers project to be right around .500. In other words, these teams harbor realistic playoff aspirations, but there's path for all of them that leads to picking in the top 10 of the 2026 draft. This group includes the Colts, Jaguars, Cowboys, Seahawks, Falcons, Cardinals, Bears and Dolphins. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen make buy or sell calls on each of their offseasons on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownColtsJaguarsCowboysSeahawksFalconsCardinalsBearsDolphinsHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-13•1hr 22mins
#13

Monday Mailbag: The best QB who could get traded, changes in Detroit, Travis Hunter's usage, and more

The mail carrier came knocking and yet again brought us more than our fair share of great questions. Which successful team of the last five years is most realistic for current bottom-feeders to replicate? Are the Steelers still an elite franchise? Why doesn't Sean McDermott get as much respect as Kyle Shanahan? Which quarterback is the best who, in theory, could get traded? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Michael Beller answer those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Michael BellerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-12•1hr 2mins
#14

The George Pickens trade and the pass-catcher landscape

The George Pickens trade (mostly) brought to an end a busy offseason movement period for wide receivers. Davante Adams, D.K. Metcalf, Cooper Kupp, Stefon Diggs, Deebo Samuel, and Christian Kirk all find themselves on new teams. Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Chris Godwin and Metcalf all signed big extensions. Ten receivers, including Travis Hunter, were selected in the first 70 picks of the NFL Draft, and reliable veterans like DeAndre Hopkins, Tyler Lockett and Josh Palmer also found new homes. What's the state of the wide receiver landscape after all that movement? Which groups improved the most? Which ones have us a bit concerned? And which ones are we sneaky excited to watch this season? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen run that full route tree on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-08•55mins
#15

Cold Takes Revisited

Almost every take comes scorching hot, right out of the oven. Some of them get cold awfully fast. But the good news about those cold takes is that we can learn a thing or two from them! So, what did our cold takes from 2024 teach us about the NFL and the way we think about it? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig back in the shadowy past and bring it to light on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Rundown The Jaguars are a playoff-quality team The Texans offense is elite Giants over Broncos and Commanders in the Wins Pool Everything about the Commanders Missing on the Eagles and Vikings defense Buying Jerod Mayo and the Patriots defense More pass-catchers is always good! (Stefon Diggs and Keenan Allen additions) Where was our 49ers doubt?Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-07•1hr 6mins
#16

Offseason Buy or Sell: Teams in Transition

With the 2025 NFL Draft firmly in the rear-view mirror, we are now in full-on offseason mode on The Athletic Football Show. With that comes one of our favorite offseason staples...are we buying or selling what each of the 32 teams did to improve their teams for the 2025 season? We start the series with what we're calling the Teams in Transition, which includes the Titans, Browns, Giants, Patriots, Jets, Raiders, Saints and Panthers. Do we buy or sell what those teams have done since the Super Bowl? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen make their calls on those eight teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Rundown Titans Browns Giants Patriots Jets Raiders Saints PanthersHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-06•1hr 25mins
#17

Draft fallout and James Cook's future lead the return of the TAFS mailbag

The draft is over, which means Mailbag Mondays are back! Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen tackle questions about quarterbacks improving their accuracy, the most electric recent draft moments, James Cook's future in Buffalo and more on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Rundown Which teams bet in the draft on their ability to develop players? Are the Steelers the most unlikely team to win a SB in the next five years How easy is it for a QB to improve accuracy? Which past draft moments would you have wanted to cover live? What will Titans do with Will Levis? Is pass rush success with smaller pass rushers sustainable? Was the Falcons draft really that bad? Is Cam Ward the most valuable pick of the draft? Are we seeing new positions being prioritized in the draft? Making sense of late-round trades What to make of Washington pivoting to win-now Should the Bills work to retain James Cook right now? How many quarterabcks would be elite with the Eagles? How many teams can Patrick Mahomes make elite?Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-05•1hr 26mins
#18

Biggest questions remaining after the draft

The coaching carousel has stopped spinning. The free agency frenzy is in the rear-view mirror. The 2025 NFL Draft is done. All 32 teams as currently constructed are essentially what they are going to be when they take the field in Week 1. So what are the weightiest questions we still have? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen ask, and try to answer, those questions on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Rundown Who's going to catch passes for the Cowboys? Is the Bills pass-catcher anxiety warranted? Is the Cardinals OL good enough to get them where they want to go? Did Houston do enough on defense to stay the course? Who plays QB for the Steelers in 2025 The Panthers didn't draft a corner, and didn't take a safety until the fourth round....ummmm, what? How soon do we see Tyler Shough starting for the Saints? Sneaky teams we're excited to watch in 2025 Do any of the veteran trade candidates get moved? What happens with the veteran free agents and contract extension candidates? What are the Vikings going to do in the secondary? Lingering team-specific needsHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-05-01•1hr 13mins
#19

The messages teams sent in the 2025 NFL Draft, with Field Yates

Teams can lie to us before the draft. They can obfuscate. They can mislead. Once the draft arrives, though, they have to tell the truth. So what messages did teams send once they finally had to put their money where their mouth is? Robert Mays and Field Yates from ESPN discuss the messages teams sent in the 2025 NFL Draft on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Rundown Bills Steelers A quick Giants tangent Raiders Cardinals Patriots 49ers Dolphins Titans PackersHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Field YatesExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @fieldyates.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Field on X: @FieldYatesTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-29•1hr 13mins
#20

2025 NFL Draft day three recap and overall takeaways

And that's a wrap on the 2025 NFL Draft. Who did good work on day three? Who did good work the entire weekend? Why did the Browns go back to the quarterback well to grab Shedeur Sanders? Which teams had good plans, and which ones surprised us? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler answer those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-27•1hr 24mins
#21

2025 NFL Draft second and third round recap

The second and third rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft are in the books, and the first half of our draft story is all but complete. Who were our favorite picks on day two? Where were the surprises? Which teams came away with the best hauls across the first three rounds? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler answer those questions, and more, as they put a capstone on The Athletic Football Show's live coverage of the 2025 NFL Draft.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...⁠Apple⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-26•50mins
#22

2025 NFL Draft first round recap + best day two picks

The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft is in the books. What were our favorite picks? What were the biggest surprises. Who do we feel different about because of his landing spot. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen, Dane Brugler and Bruce Feldman answer those questions, and also take a look ahead to night two, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownFavorite picks of the nightBiggest surprisesBiggest head-scratchersBest fitsThe guys you see differently because of where he landedThe best players remaining going into night twoHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane Brugler and Bruce FeldmanExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Bruce on Bluesky: @brucefeldmancfb.bsky.socilFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerFollow Bruce on X: @BruceFeldmanCFBTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-25•46mins
#23

Biggest remaining questions heading into the 2025 NFL Draft

Friends, the 2025 NFL Draft has arrived. All our questions will finally be answered. But, for the time being, we still have questions! How many quarterbacks will go in the first round? Who, if anyone, will make a big move up the board? How will the receiver and corner positions shake out? Will any veteran players get traded? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler ask the questions that still have them flummoxed on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownAll things quarterbackWho makes the move for Ashton Jeanty?Who's going to be the trade-up team?How high do the toolsy pass rushers go?Are both tight ends really gonna go that high?How do the receivers shake out?How does corner shake out?Veteran player tradesDoes the league buy these interior offensive linemen?What do the 49ers want to be on defense?Who's the back-half-of-the-first-round surprise pick?Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-24•1hr 11mins

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#24

The very good, but maybe not great, 2025 NFL Draft offensive line class

A great comedy movie isn't going to win any Oscars, but it's a fun two hours at the movies. That's the offensive line class in the 2025 NFL Draft. It may not be stocked with potential future All-Pros, but it does have more than its fair share of players who project as quality starters. Dane Brugler and Brandon Thorn from the Trench Warfare Substack join Robert Mays to break down the class on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane Brugler and Brandon ThornExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerFollow Brandon on X: @BrandonThornNFLTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-23•1hr 30mins
#25

On the Clock, picks 26-32: The top-tier Super Bowl contenders make their moves

We're back On the Clock on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Mike Renner from CBS Sports joins Robert Mays to wrap up the first round and make picks 26 through 32 in the 2025 NFL Draft. That covers first round picks for the Rams, Ravens, Lions, Commanders, Bills, Chiefs and Eagles. The Ravens go for traits at pass rusher! The Lions get some oomph in the middle of their defensive line! The Eagles replace Josh Sweat! Come and join the draft fun.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Mike RennerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Trevor on Bluesky: @tampabaytre.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Trevor on X: @TampaBayTreTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-22•53mins
#26

Monday Mailbag: The NFC North's head coach stardom, the best drafting teams, remembering some running backs, and more

Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into the mailbag one more time before the 2025 NFL Draft on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Can one division support as much head coaching talent as the NFC North has? Should teams be wary about giving out top-of-the-market extensions to players at non-premium positions? Who were your favorite running backs to watch play? The guys answer those questions, and a whole lot more.RundownNFC North loaded at head coachWhat's the easiest position for a world-class athlete who has never seen football to play?Giving top-of-the-market extensions to players at non-premium positionsShould we expect Jayden Daniels to regress along the same lines as CJ Stroud?Teams that are good/bad at draftingUse of the fifth-year option affecting draft decisionsShould teams consider division opponents in team-building processShould teams think about second-year players who had huge rookie seasons?What are the most fun "caution-to-the-wind" picks that could happen this year?Who were your favorite running backs to watch play?Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-21•1hr 8mins
#27

The 2025 NFL Draft pass-catcher class blowout!

Three receivers went in the top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft. That isn't likely to be the case this year, but we could see 10 come off the board by the end of the second round. The tight end position might give us our highest-selected pass-catcher this year, with both Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland getting top-10 buzz. No matter what, the pass-catchers are going to give us plenty to talk about draft weekend. They also give Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler plenty to talk about on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-18•1hr 44mins
#28

The 2025 NFL Draft's mid-round gems, with Dane Brugler and Daniel Jeremiah

Bucky Irving...125th overall in 2024. Nick Herbig...132nd overall in 2023. Kerby Joseph...97th overall in 2022. Teams can, and do, find themselves difference makers on the second and third day of the draft. Who might be those players this season? Dane Brugler and Daniel Jeremiah from NFL Network join Robert Mays to highlight the potential mid-round gems in the 2025 NFL Draft on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Get The Beast: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane Brugler and Daniel JeremiahExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerFollow Daniel on X: @MoveTheSticksTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-16•1hr 4mins
#29

On the Clock, picks 19-25: The playoff teams have entered the chat

We're back On the Clock on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus joins Robert Mays to make picks 19 through 25 in the 2025 NFL Draft. That brings us our first batch of last season's playoff teams, including the Buccaneers, Broncos, Steelers, Chargers, Packers, Vikings and Texans. The Buccaneers make a statement at EDGE! The Steelers and Chargers grab receivers! The Packers add a corner! Come and join the draft fun.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Trevor SikkemaExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Trevor on Bluesky: @tampabaytre.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Trevor on X: @TampaBayTreTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-15•1hr 10mins
#30

Monday Mailbag: Coordinator hires, the Steelers' QB situation, draft day shockers, and more

One of the many things we love about the TAFS mailbag is that it reflects the conversations real football fans are having in the moment. As such, it should come as no surprise that this edition of the mailbag is heavy on draft questions. What are some plausible draft day surprises we could see this year? Why do certain players seem to have dramatic climbs or tumbles down draft boards in March and April? Should teams recalibrate how the think about premium positions in a draft like this one? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into those questions, and a whole lot more.RundownHow much do teams know about other teams draft boards?Evaluating contact balance for college prospectsFavorite coordinator hires this cycleSurprising draft day tradesHow the Steelers have handled the QB positionWhy do players rise or fall on draft boardsDraft day shockersPremium position vs. premium talentWhich Georgia EDGE defender is the better bet?Favorite and least favorite metricsHow many Hall of Famers were active in 2024?Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-14•1hr 20mins
#31

Abdul Carter, Mason Graham, and a loaded defensive line draft class

Dane Brugler has been telling us for months that this is a good draft to need defensive players. That's exemplified by a defensive line class that features 28 players inside the top 100 of The Beast. Dane and Fran Duffy from the ALLCITY Network join Robert Mays on this episode of The Athletic Football Show to break down the DL class in the 2025 NFL Draft.RundownAbdul CarterMason GrahamMykel WilliamsJalon WalkerWalter NolenDerrick HarmonShemar StewartMike GreenJames Pearce Jr.Kenneth GrantLandon JacksonGet The Beast: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane Brugler and Fran DuffyExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Fran on Bluesky: @fduffy.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerFollow Fran on X: @FDuffyNFLTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-10•1hr 11mins
#32

The most polarizing players in the 2025 NFL Draft

Everyone likes Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter. There's a widespread consensus that Cam Ward deserves to be the top quarterback on the board. After that, though, opinions vary more so than in most drafts in recent memory. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler dig into the players driving that disagreement on this episode of The Athletic Football Show, breaking down the most polarizing players in the 2025 NFL Draft.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-09•1hr 10mins
#33

On the Clock, picks 13-18: Teams chasing needs, teams chasing dreams

We're back On the Clock on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Ben Solak from ESPN joins Robert Mays to make picks 13 through 18 in the 2025 NFL Draft. That covers first-round picks for the Dolphins, Colts, Falcons, Cardinals, Bengals and Seahawks. The Dolphins and Bengals get some offensive line help! The Falcons take another swing at ending the John Abraham bit! The Seahawks bring in another receiver for Sam Darnold! Come and join the draft fun.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Ben SolakExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Ben on Bluesky: @benjaminsolak.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Ben on X: @BenjaminSolakTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-08•1hr 2mins
#34

Monday Mailbag: Head coach trades, the case against Travis Hunter, the most fun trade-up scenarios in the first round, and more

The TAFS mailbag is once again chock full of great questions from all of you out there. This time around, the mail carrier brought us questions on head coach trades, GM job security, the Lions' approach to the regular season, the most fun trade-ups that could happen in this year's draft, and a whole lot more.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-07•1hr 7mins
#35

Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and the deepest running back draft class in years

You know Ashton Jeanty. You know Omarion Hampton. You know Kaleb Johnson and TreVeyon Henderson. And if you know all of them, chances are you know that this is the deepest running back draft class in years. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler dig deep into that class on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Fill out The Athletic's listener survey. Three people will win $100 in vouchers at Amazon: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Dane on Bluesky: @danebrugler.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-04•1hr 22mins
#36

The teams with the most at stake in the 2025 NFL Draft

The draft matters for all 32 teams in the NFL...but it matters for some teams more than others. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen identify the teams with the most at stake in the 2025 NFL Draft on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Fill out The Athletic's listener survey. Three people will win $100 in vouchers at Amazon: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-02•1hr 13mins
#37

On the Clock, picks 7-12: The Panthers and 49ers swing our first trade!

We're back On the Clock on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Danny Kelly from The Ringer joins Robert Mays to make picks seven through 12 in the 2025 NFL Draft. That covers first-round picks for the Jets, Panthers, Saints, Bears, 49ers and Cowboys. The Panthers and Niners make a deal! Ashton Jeanty comes off the board! The Saints have us confused! Again!! Come and join the draft fun.Fill out The Athletic's listener survey. Three people will win $100 in vouchers at Amazon: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Danny KellyExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Danny on Bluesky: @dannybkelly.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Danny on X: @DannyBKellyTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-04-01•1hr 10mins
#38

Monday Mailbag: Draft day trade charts, aesthetically pleasing players, rebuilding vs. retooling, and more

Once again, the TAFS mailbag was jam-packed with great questions from all of you out there. On this edition of the mailbag, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen tackled questions on what a draft day trade chart looks like in a "down" year, prioritizing pass-catchers or pass protection for an elite quarterback, the best way to rebuild a scuffling team, current players who would've thrived in an earlier era, and more.Fill out The Athletic's listener survey. Three people will win $100 in vouchers at Amazon: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-31•1hr 8mins
#39

The best-case scenarios and biggest flaws for the 2025 quarterback draft class

We've enjoyed two straight drafts with star-studded quarterback classes. This year's class...is not that. Still, it provides its fair share of intrigue. The Titans seem to have settled on Cam Ward as the top pick in the draft. Shedeur Sanders could go with the second pick, or in the second round. Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough and Jalen Milroe all could find themselves in advantageous spots this summer. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler dig deep into the 2025 quarterback class on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.The guys also discuss the Russell Wilson and Stefon Diggs signings, and how those moves affect the draft.RundownRussell Wilson signs with the GiantsStefon Diggs signs with the PatriotsCam WardShedeur SandersJaxson DartTyler ShoughJalen MilroeFill out The Athletic's listener survey. Three people will win $100 in vouchers at Amazon: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Dane BruglerExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-27•1hr 36mins
#40

How much does college production matter for edge prospects?

We're likely to see six or seven edge players selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Some of them, like Abdul Carter, were wildly productive in college. Others, like Mykel Williams and Shemar Stewart, weren't. That reality naturally leads to this question...how much does college production matter for edge prospects when it comes to their effectiveness at the NFL level? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Justis Mosqueda from Acme Packing Company dive deep into that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.The Athletic's listener survey: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Justis MosquedaExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Justis on Bluesky: @jumosq.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Justis on X: @JuMosqTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-26•53mins
#41

On the Clock, picks one through six: A quarterback goes first...and second

Welcome to the debut of On the Clock, a new draft exercise on The Athletic Football Show. Every week, a draft analyst will join Robert Mays to cover six or seven picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, considering a trio of potential decisions for each of the teams in question. By time we get to the end of it, we'll have built an entire first round mock and had some interesting discussions along the way. Jordan Reid of ESPN is Robert's guest for the maiden voyage of On the Clock.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Jordan ReidExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Jordan on Bluesky: @jordanreid.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Jordan on X: @Jordan_ReidTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-25•51mins
#42

Monday Mailbag: Rule change proposals, 'can't-miss prospects' that miss, the shifting dynamics of fandom, and more

With free agency fully in the rear-view mirror, we're back to our normal schedule on TAFS. And that means we're back to opening up the mailbag on Mondays! Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into questions about the recent rule change proposals, why it's hard to find difference-making off-ball linebackers, supposed can't-miss prospects who end up missing, building through the draft vs. making big swings, and a whole lot more.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-24•1hr 15mins
#43

Biggest remaining team needs after the first wave of free agency

Plenty of team needs were addressed when the free agency period opened, but not every team can fill every hole by signing players off the market. So what are the biggest needs that remain as we put the first wave of free agency behind us and turn our attention to the draft? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into that question—considering Patriots left tackle, Chargers wide receiver, Bengals defensive line, and more—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-20•59mins
#44

How the moves made in free agency this year affected the draft, with Dane Brugler

The effects of free agency are felt long before teams take the field in September. Hopes are up in certain fanbases. Not so much in others. Teams are making plans that they couldn't consider a few weeks ago because of this player or that one. And, of course, teams can now plunge headlong into the draft knowing exactly what their needs are. So how did free agency affect the draft? Dane Brugler joins Robert Mays to dive into that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassFollow Dane on X: @dpbruglerTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-19•1hr 5mins
#45

How much better are these NFC teams really?

Teams like the Vikings, Giants and Seahawks have been active in free agency. There's no doubt about that. But how much better are they really? That's exactly the question Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen strive to answer on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.The guys also discuss the extensions for Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Derek Stingley.RundownBengals lock up Chase and HigginsDerek Stingley signs an extension with the TexansVikingsSeahawksGiantsPanthersRamsCardinalsBearsBuccaneersPackersSaintsCommandersHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-17•1hr 32mins
#46

How much better are these AFC teams really?

Teams like the Patriots, Colts and Jaguars have been active in free agency. There's no doubt about that. But how much better are they really? That's exactly the question Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen strive to answer on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownPatriotsColtsJaguarsTitansJetsBillsBroncosChiefsDolphinsRaidersTexansHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-13•1hr 21mins
#47

Free agency day three recap: So...you're freakin' out

Free agency hasn't been fun for everyone. Just ask Cowboys fans, who have watched their team mostly sit out free agency again. Or Bengals fans, who have watched their team make a couple small moves on defense while seemingly antagonizing even further the trio of players on offense that makes them special in the first place. It's safe to say those fanbases are freakin' out, and they aren't the only ones. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss the teams might have their fans a bit on edge on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownRams release Cooper KuppSo...you're freakin'outBengalsSteelersSeahawksLionsRavensChargersCowboysBrownsFalconsThe latest in free agencyHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-12•1hr 12mins
#48

Free agency day two recap: Vikings spend big, Colts sign Daniel Jones, Giants ink Jevon Holland, and more

The Vikings capped off day one of free agency with a couple of big moves, bringing back Byron Murphy Jr. and bringing in Jonathan Allen. They picked right back up on the morning of day two, signing Will Fries and reportedly agreeing to a deal with Javon Hargrave. They were the big spenders on day two of free agency, but they certainly weren't the only spenders. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive into day two on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys discuss Dre Greenlaw to the Broncos, Daniel Jones to the Colts, Chase Young and Juwan Johnson sticking with the Saints, Najee Harris going to the Chargers, the seeming change that's afoot in San Francisco, and more.RundownThe Vikings spend bigJevon Holland to the GiantsTershawn Wharton to the PanthersDre Greenlaw to the BroncosDaniel Jones to the ColtsKristian Fulton to the ChiefsNajee Harris to the ChargersTexans/Eagles tradeLeonard Floyd to the FalconsChanging of the times in San FranciscoSmall moves from day twoHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-11•1hr 3mins
#49

Free agency day one recap: Seattle makes over its team, Rams sign Davante Adams, Washington trades for Laremy Tunsil, and more

Geno Smith? Traded! DK Metcalf? Traded! Sam Darnold? Signed! The Seahawks entirely made over their team by the end of day one of free agency, and they weren't alone in completely recalibrating their outlook for 2025. From Davante Adams to the Rams, to Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders, to a defensive spending spree in New England, this offseason's free agency window got off to a roaring start. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen recap it all on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.RundownThe Seahawks remake their teamLaremy Tunsil to the CommandersRams sign Davante AdamsThe Pats go on a spending spreeA couple of left tackles cash inEffects on the draftJustin Fields to the JetsWhat all the linebackers staying put could meanFavorite fits from Monday's movesSurprise signings from MondayHost: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-11•1hr 19mins
#50

Khalil Mack staying put? Trey Hendrickson to the Packers? It's the defense edition of the TAFS free agency preview

Khalil Mack, Jevon Holland and Josh Sweat headline the available free agent defensive players. Add in a likely Trey Hendrickson trade and a potential Myles Garrett trade, and it could be a fun week for teams that need help on defense. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen preview free agency on the defensive side of the ball on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.Then, The Athletic's Lions beat writer Colton Pouncy joins to discuss what it will take for them to get over the hump.Host: Robert MaysCo-Host: Derrik KlassenWith: Joe BuscagliaExecutive Producer: Michael BellerProducer: Michael BellerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeFollow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.socialFollow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.socialFollow Robert on X: @robertmaysFollow Derrik on X: @QBKlassTheme song: HauntedWritten by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love SongsCourtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025-03-07•1hr 21mins

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