The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Building the Beast: Team + position matchmaking inside the projected top 10

7 snips
Nov 19, 2025
As the NFL season winds down, experts evaluate the draft landscape for the top teams. They explore Tennessee's decision on holding the number one pick versus trading down, and Cleveland's urgent need for a quarterback. Position priorities are debated, focusing on whether to draft non-QB talents like edge rushers and tackles. The Jets are highlighted for their promising roster that could use multiple first-round picks, while the Raiders face uncertainty in their QB pursuit. Insights into teams like the Commanders and Rams round out the discussion on draft strategies.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Draft Order Shapes Team Strategy

  • The early draft order is crystallizing and will shape which teams can realistically pursue quarterbacks or trade back.
  • Teams like the Titans may prefer trading down from No.1 to acquire multiple first-round picks rather than picking a QB they don't need.
INSIGHT

Top Pick Has More Trade Value Than Usual

  • With no clear consensus No.1 prospect, a team holding the top pick gains value by trading down for multiple picks.
  • The Titans especially could convert a top pick into instant upgrades across several positions.
ADVICE

Weigh Urgency Before Trading Up

  • Consider team urgency and available quarterback prospects before agreeing to a trade-up price.
  • Teams low on QB options should use draft capital aggressively or pursue veteran upgrades instead of waiting.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app