Following the NFL Draft, critical questions loom for various teams. The Cowboys' pass-catching woes raise eyebrows, while the Bills' anxieties about their receiving corps are discussed. The Steelers face decisions on their quarterback future, pondering between familiar faces like Kirk Cousins and Aaron Rodgers. The Panthers' late cornerback choices leave fans scratching their heads, and the Vikings' secondary conditions appear precarious. Plus, a spotlight on sneaky teams that could surprise in 2025 and the dynamics of veteran trades and contracts adds intrigue.
The Cowboys' lack of investment in the receiver position during the draft raises concerns about their offensive strategy heading into 2025.
The Bills' reliance on existing pass-catchers rather than drafting new talent poses questions about their capacity to compete offensively.
The uncertainty surrounding the Cardinals' offensive line may hinder their ability to effectively support quarterback Kyler Murray this season.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Starting Podcasting
Starting a podcast often presents numerous challenges, such as booking guests, creating show rundowns, and managing the editing process, which can feel overwhelming for newcomers. The speaker emphasizes that the tasks can seem endless, especially in the early stages of developing a podcast. However, finding the right tools to streamline these processes can significantly ease the burden and improve efficiency. An example of such a tool is Shopify, which helps businesses simplify their operations and enhance their online presence.
Shopify as a Commerce Solution
Shopify is showcased as a pivotal tool for millions of businesses globally, being the backbone of 10% of e-commerce in the U.S. The platform allows users to start their own online stores with ease, offering hundreds of ready-to-use templates to help reflect their brand's identity. Additionally, Shopify streamlines content creation with AI-powered tools that assist in writing product descriptions and improving product photography. The service also provides marketing solutions that help businesses connect with their audience across various online platforms.
Transitioning Post-Draft
After completing the NFL draft, teams often face the reality of their roster needs and the players they still need to acquire. The podcast discusses key questions that arise following the draft, particularly in relation to teams that failed to address critical positions. For example, the Cowboys' strategy came under scrutiny as they did not select a receiver or tight end, raising concerns about their offensive potential moving forward. Observations about the remaining veteran free agents and potential trade candidates were discussed as teams look to bolster their rosters before the upcoming season.
Concerns for the Cowboys' Passing Game
The Cowboys face uncertainty in their passing game following the 2025 draft, where they failed to draft any wide receivers despite pressing needs. The absence of reliable options alongside star receiver CeeDee Lamb raises questions about their offensive strategy. Additionally, the lack of a dependable second or third receiving option places immense pressure on Lamb to perform. Fans and analysts are left wondering whether the team will seek veteran help or rely on unproven players to step up.
The Bills' Receiver Dilemma
The podcast explores the Bills' passing game, particularly their decision to draft less talent in the receiver room while relying on existing players. The organization hopes that their current crew, including players like Josh Palmer, can complement quarterback Josh Allen's explosive potential. While this decision pays homage to the importance of solidifying their defense, concerns linger regarding the effectiveness of their offense without high-caliber wide receivers. Questions remain about whether this approach will suffice in competing against teams with stronger passing attacks.
The Cardinals' Offensive Line Challenges
Questions arise about the Cardinals' offensive line, especially after they opted not to invest significantly in new personnel during the offseason. With key departures and an unproven depth chart, concerns grow regarding the effectiveness of their line in supporting quarterback Kyler Murray. The podcast argues that without solidifying this group, the Cardinals could struggle offensively against formidable opponents. Experts predict that if the offensive line does not improve, it may set back the team's success in the coming season.
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?
