Glue Guys

Seth Wickersham - Inside the Elite Quarterback Mind - [Glue Guys, EP.44]

12 snips
Jun 26, 2025
ESPN's Seth Wickersham, a senior writer and bestselling author, joins to discuss his new book, "American Kings." He dives into the unique world of NFL quarterbacks, revealing how Tom Brady's self-affirmation techniques shape his mindset. The conversation also highlights family dynamics in quarterbacking, particularly with Arch Manning, and the pressures during the draft process. Alex Smith shares his personal struggles, while the group contemplates evolving QB roles and the intense scrutiny facing these athletes as they balance performance and expectations.
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ANECDOTE

Carl Williams' Protective Role

  • Caleb Williams and his father Carl faced criticism for trying to control Caleb's draft situation, similar to past quarterbacks like the Mannings and John Elway who pushed for trades.
  • Seth Wickersham empathizes with their approach, seeing it as a natural attempt to steer a precarious path in a high-pressure environment.
INSIGHT

Quarterback Identity Uniqueness

  • Seth Wickersham views quarterbacking as a unique identity with many hats, unlike other sports roles.
  • The journey from thousands of high school QBs to the few elite NFL starters requires traits often at odds with life after football.
ANECDOTE

Seth's Humbling Quarterback Moment

  • Seth shares his personal story of a ruined game-winning drive in high school that left him distraught and wanting to disappear.
  • His center's later support helped him forgive himself for that painful youthful failure.
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