

Glory Daze with Johnny Manziel
Almost Friday Media
Glory Daze with Johnny Manziel is an interview series from Almost Friday Media that celebrates and explores the most nostalgic eras in sports. Hosted by former Heisman Trophy winner and infamous first-round pick, Johnny will sit down with some of the most iconic and legendary names in sports for authentic conversations, look backs, and more. Like coming home and watching Tavon Austin and John Wall highlights with your buddies at 4 AM, these conversations will dive into the glory of sports’ biggest stages and the adversity that often accompanies them. Welcome back to the glory days.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 21, 2025 • 48min
Johnny Manziel & Michael Porter Jr. Talk Pressures of Early Fame, Women & Dominating the Lakers
Johnny Manziel and Denver Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr. sit down on Glory Daze for a conversation every sports fan will want to hear. They cover everything from the pressures of early fame to Porter’s recent comments on gambling, and what it’s really like to be judged when the whole world is watching. Manziel opens up about the whirlwind of becoming “Johnny Football,” the money, the attention, and the mistakes that came with it. Porter Jr. dives into his own journey — the surgeries, the doubt, the comeback — and how he’s handled the spotlight as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars.
The two also break down what it takes to compete at the highest level. Porter shares stories about facing off with LeBron James, dominating the Lakers, and the mindset that fueled Denver’s historic NBA Championship run alongside Nikola Jokić. From locker room stories to life lessons, Manziel and Porter give fans a rare look at the reality behind the headlines. This is more than just a sit-down — it’s two athletes comparing notes on fame, pressure, and chasing greatness.
Thank you to our sponsors!!!
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Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 2min
Johnny Manziel, Mike Evans & Von Miller Sit Down for a Texas A&M Tell All
It’s an Aggie takeover on Glory Daze as Johnny Manziel interviews two fellow Texas A&M legends — Mike Evans and Von Miller — in two, can’t-miss conversations. Three Aggies, three incredible careers, and a whole lot of stories that fans have never heard before. When we started this podcast this is the episode we had in mind.
Johnny and Mike Evans look back on one of the most unforgettable moments in Aggie football history: the game where they took down Alabama. They rewatch key plays, share the emotions of the win, and give a behind-the-scenes look at how that night changed everything for them. Hearing it straight from the quarterback and receiver who lived it is as close as you’ll get to being back on the field.
Then Johnny catches up with Von Miller, diving into his journey from Texas A&M star to Super Bowl MVP. Von opens up about playing alongside Peyton Manning, what it took to win on the biggest stage, and the lessons he’s carried through his career. Whether it’s the roar of Kyle Field or the bright lights of the Super Bowl, these Aggies have been there — and now they’re telling all.
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Aug 7, 2025 • 1h 2min
Anthony Rizzo & Johnny Manziel on the Cubs' World Series, a Missed Dynasty, and the Yankees Trade
In Episode 8 of Glory Daze, Johnny Manziel sits down with Anthony Rizzo to talk about one of the most iconic moments in sports history: the Chicago Cubs breaking the 108-year curse and winning the 2016 World Series. Rizzo relives the intensity of that postseason run, the magic of playing at Wrigley Field, and what it felt like when Chicago was the center of the baseball universe. From rain delays to rally speeches, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at a championship that redefined a franchise.
The conversation also turns to the aftermath — the "what-ifs" that still haunt Cubs fans. Rizzo reflects on the team’s young core and how different things could have been if they’d kept guys like Kris Bryant, Javy Báez, and Kyle Schwarber together. He also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of being traded to the Yankees, building chemistry with Aaron Judge, and what it’s like playing under the bright lights of Yankee Stadium. Plus, he shares a hilarious Aroldis Chapman story that you won’t want to miss.
Thank you to our sponsors!!!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 31, 2025 • 1h 18min
Cam Newton & Johnny Manziel on Heisman Wins, Alabama Victories & Challenging Narratives
Episode 7 of Glory Daze brings together two of college football’s biggest legends – Cam Newton and Johnny Manziel – for a sit-down you won’t forget. Cam opens up about his incredible journey, starting at Florida where he played for Urban Meyer alongside Tim Tebow, before making the decision to transfer to Auburn. There, he became a college football icon, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading the Tigers to a national championship. Johnny shares his own path to the Heisman at Texas A&M, and the two trade stories about the highs, the pressures, and the spotlight that comes with being at the center of the sport.
From Cam’s dominant run in college to becoming the face of the Carolina Panthers, winning an NFL MVP, and taking his team all the way to the Super Bowl, this episode dives into the moments that shaped him on and off the field. Along the way, Cam and Johnny compare their experiences, talk about how much the game has changed, and look back on the wild ride that made them two of the most memorable players of their era. If you love college football history, Heisman stories, and behind-the-scenes NFL talk, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Thank you to our sponsors!!!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 24, 2025 • 59min
Shawne Merriman: The Chargers Were the BEST Team of the 2000s
Shawne Merriman joins Johnny Manziel for Episode 6 of Glory Daze to revisit one of the most loaded and unforgettable teams of the 2000s — the San Diego Chargers. From 2004 to 2009, the Chargers were stacked with stars like LaDainian Tomlinson, Philip Rivers, and Antonio Gates, and Merriman was at the heart of it all as one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL. He reflects on the team's dominance, the locker room culture, and why they never quite reached the Super Bowl despite being considered the most talented roster of the decade. Merriman shares what it was like being on the field when LT broke the single-season rushing touchdown record, and gives rare insight into what made that team so dangerous — and what ultimately held them back.
The conversation also dives into Merriman’s personal journey, including his PED suspension and how it affected his career and reputation. Then, Johnny and Shawne shift focus to the current state of the AFC West. Merriman gives his thoughts on Justin Herbert’s growth, what Jim Harbaugh brings to the Chargers’ culture, and whether this era’s team can finally deliver where the 2000s squad fell short. Plus, they talk about the challenge of getting past Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, who continue to set the gold standard in the NFL. This is a must-listen for any football fan who remembers the “Lights Out” era — or wants to know how today’s Chargers can reclaim that energy.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 17, 2025 • 30min
Pat Surtain II on Nick Saban's Wrath, Bo Nix Doubters & 2025 Broncos
Johnny Manziel sits down with Denver Broncos star cornerback Patrick Surtain II to talk about his rise from Alabama standout to one of the NFL’s top defensive players. Patrick looks back on his time playing under Nick Saban, the championship culture at Alabama, and how going up against elite talent every day helped prepare him for Sundays.
The conversation dives into Patrick’s NFL success, including what it meant to be named Defensive Player of the Year and how he approaches matchups against the best in the game. He breaks down what it’s like guarding Ja’Marr Chase, what makes him such a unique challenge, and how he prepares to shut down top-tier receivers each week.
Johnny and Patrick also look ahead to the future of the Denver Broncos. With Sean Payton taking the reins and rookie quarterback Bo Nix generating buzz, Patrick shares his thoughts on the team’s direction and why there’s real belief inside the building that Denver is on the verge of turning a corner.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today!
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Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 13min
Tom Segura on Feud w/ WWE, Joe Rogan, & Love For College Football
In this episode of Glory Daze, Johnny Manziel sits down with comedian and podcast legend Tom Segura for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into everything from his new Netflix series, Bad Thoughts, to the long grind of becoming a stand-up comic. Tom shares how he got his start in comedy, the moments that shaped his career, and how years of hustling in small clubs eventually led to selling out arenas around the world. He and Johnny swap stories about life on the road, chasing big dreams, and the unpredictable path of building a career in the spotlight.
The two also bond over their love of sports — from Florida State’s national championship to Tom’s take on the funniest athletes in the game. They talk about the crossover between comedy and sports, specifically college football. Tom also reflects on the impact of his long-time friendship with Joe Rogan — how Rogan’s rise in comedy and podcasting helped shape a generation of storytellers and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the entertainment world.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Rhoback: Use code “JOHNNY” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first purchase through the end of this week. That’s spelled R-H-O-B-A-C-K .com. That’s 20% off all Polos, Hoodies, and more with code “JOHNNY”.
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Jun 25, 2025 • 27min
Tyreek Hill on Noah Lyles Beef, Fastest in NFL Title & Calling Out Bills
In Episode 3 of Glory Daze, Tyreek Hill joins us for an unfiltered conversation about everything from track beef to football loyalty. He opens up about his recent back-and-forth with U.S. sprinter Noah Lyles, why their highly anticipated race never happened, and who really deserves the title of the fastest man in the NFL.
Tyreek also reflects on his time with the Miami Dolphins — sharing what it’s like playing alongside Tua Tagovailoa, how head coach Mike McDaniel has unlocked a new level in his game, and why he’s having more fun than ever on the field.
Plus, he makes it clear he’s not done building something special in Miami. Hear why he’s making it a personal mission to keep Jalen Ramsey with the Dolphins and how he’s taking on a leadership role both on and off the field.
Thanks to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today!
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Jun 19, 2025 • 47min
Brian Urlacher on 2000s Bears, Rodgers/Favre Rivalry & Jay Cutler
In Episode 2 of Glory Daze, Johnny Manziel sits down with NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher to talk about his journey from the University of New Mexico to becoming the heart of the Chicago Bears defense.
Urlacher breaks down how he made it to the league, what it was like playing in a tough Bears locker room alongside Jay Cutler, Lance Briggs, Devin Hester, playing for Lovie Smith, and what it took to lead the team all the way to Super Bowl XLI. He also talks about facing off against division legends like Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, and how those rivalries with the Packers shaped his career.
Plus, Brian opens up about his son following in his footsteps as he heads to play college football — and he and Johnny dig into how much the game has changed with NIL and the new era of college athletes getting paid.
Thanks to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Rhoback: Use code “JOHNNY” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first purchase through the end of this week. That’s spelled R-H-O-B-A-C-K .com. That’s 20% off all Polos, Hoodies, and more with code “JOHNNY”.
Athletic Nicotine: Ready to level up your focus? Head over to www.athleticnicotine.com/JOHNNY to grab yours today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 11min
Maxx Crosby on Raiders 2024 Chaos, Gruden's Firing & Mahomes Rivalry
We are so back Glory Daze family, and we couldn’t be kicking off Season 2 with more of a winner. Glory Daze is all about celebrating the highs AND lows that made us fall in love with sports - the ups and downs that make our favorite athletes who they are.
So who better to launch Season 2 with than the Condor, Mad Maxx himself - Maxx Crosby. Maxx joined us to chop it up about becoming the highest paid non-QB in the league, a rough 2024 Raiders Season, his relentless attitude at Eastern Michigan and beyond, his incredible journey with sobriety, and those wild early Raiders locker rooms with guys like Antonio Brown, Richie Incognito, and Jon Gruden.
And thanks to our sponsors!
Fanatics: New customers, don’t miss a special welcome offer. Sign up and use promo code GLORYDAZE to get $200 in Bonus Bets when you place your first bet of $20 or more.
Rhoback: Use code “JOHNNY” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first purchase through the end of this week. That’s spelled R-H-O-B-A-C-K .com. That’s 20% off all Polos, Hoodies, and more with code “JOHNNY”.
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