EXCLUSIVE: Zaire Franklin on why the Colts could surprise this season?

Scoop City is back with another packed episode as Week 2 of the NFL season looms. The San Francisco 49ers will likely be without quarterback Brock Purdy this Sunday against the Saints. Purdy is dealing with toe and shoulder injuries, which means former first-round pick Mac Jones could be next up under center.

The Athletic's senior NFL writer Jourdan Rodrigue joins Scoop City to talk about her article "Life as a backup NFL QB is a mental and emotional whirlwind." James Palmer and Jourdan talk about what the Niners’ offense could look like with Jones and how big of a loss George Kittle is after the All-Pro tight end was placed on injured reserve.

Jourdan also previews the Chargers vs. Raiders matchup. Justin Herbert threw for three touchdowns in the opener, while Geno Smith lit up the Patriots for 362 yards in his Raiders debut. What’s at stake in this AFC West showdown, and can rookie Brock Bowers keep making plays for Las Vegas?

Then, we’ve got a special guest: Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin joins the show. Franklin breaks down Indy’s dominant Week 1 win over Miami for Palmer and senior NFL insider Dianna Russini, his role as a defensive captain and what it’s like playing alongside new quarterback Daniel Jones and rookie tight end Tyler Warren. After leading the NFL in tackles last season, how far does Franklin think this Colts team can go?

Plus, The Athletic's senior NFL fantasy writer Jake Ciely stops by with his top karaoke picks (yes, seriously). And before we wrap, we dive into the biggest fantasy football worries heading into Week 2, including receiver duos in Detroit, Philly, and Miami.

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