The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Join beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. for the Bengals, Alec Lewis for the Vikings, and Chad Graff for the Patriots as they dive into key offseason strategies. Dehner discusses T. Higgins' contract negotiations and the Bengals' defensive rebuilding efforts. Lewis analyzes the Vikings' quarterback conundrum amid Sam Darnold's potential moves. Graff highlights the Patriots' financial strategy and roster priorities, focusing on strengthening their lines instead of pursuing high-profile receivers. It's a lively look at crucial team dynamics in the NFL.

Ben Standig, the Washington Commanders beat writer, shares insights on how the team can build on their recent success. Matt Barrows, who covers the 49ers, discusses the dynamics of an expensive quarterback and lingering uncertainties about key players. Zac Jackson, the expert on the Browns, dives into the complexities of their rebuilding process, highlighting the urgent need for a new quarterback and addressing financial woes. Together, they unravel the offseason strategies and challenges facing these intriguing teams.

Jourdan Rodrigue, Rams beat writer for The Athletic, shares insights on Matthew Stafford's uncertain future and the team's push for speed in their offense. Daniel Popper delves into the Chargers' financial flexibility and the implications of restructuring their roster. Tashan Reed discusses the Raiders' new management dynamics, including Tom Brady's role and the vision for a turnaround. The trio reveals strategies for balancing immediate success while planning for the long term as their teams navigate an intriguing offseason.

Explore the powerful dynamics between NFL GMs and head coaches and how they shape team success. Delve into the crucial decisions surrounding quarterback selections as teams face urgency in the draft. Learn about offseason strategies for teams like the Jets and examine contrasting approaches to team-building seen in franchises like the Eagles and Saints. The importance of a flexible offensive line composition is emphasized, along with the emotional journey of fans grappling with inconsistent quarterback play.

Dane Brugler, a renowned draft expert at The Athletic, shares his insights about the upcoming 2025 NFL Combine. He discusses key prospects like Jihad Campbell and Jared Verse, who are expected to shine during testing. Brugler emphasizes the significance of interviews and medical assessments, especially for high-stakes quarterbacks like Cam Ward and Shador Sanders. He also touches on the evolving landscape of the Combine and how it influences scouting strategies. Get ready for a deep dive into who to watch and what to expect!

Explore the transformative power of free agency in shaping Super Bowl contenders. Learn how the 2024 Eagles leveraged strategic signings to elevate their chances for a championship. Discover the importance of pairing star players with impactful veterans, and the lessons from past Super Bowl-winning teams like the Broncos and Ravens. From key player contributions to navigating the free agent landscape, the discussion highlights how smart acquisitions can make all the difference in a team's quest for glory.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on whether elite coaches or quarterbacks hold more value. The hosts explore Trevor Lawrence's potential as the Gen-Z version of Matthew Stafford and debate the future prospects of the Bills versus the Ravens. Contemplate the resurgence of power football and the Eagles as a blueprint for success. From the dynamics of quarterback contracts to high-stakes trades, the conversation is packed with insights on player longevity and strategy, all while keeping an entertaining and light-hearted tone.

The podcast dives into the intriguing quarterback carousel for the 2025 offseason, exploring potential landing spots for veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. It discusses the Bengals' challenges with contracts and defensive strategies, while the Rams contemplate a new era amidst contract negotiations. The implications of financial decisions on roster management are analyzed, alongside the pressing needs of key teams like the Bills and Packers. Overall, it's a captivating look at the strategic moves shaping the next NFL season.

Dane Brugler, an NFL Draft analyst for The Athletic, joins the discussion to unpack his first Top 100 for 2025. He highlights standout players and assesses their potential impacts on team strategies. The conversation delves into quarterback prospects, emphasizing the importance of age and injury history. Brugler also shares insights on the benefits of selecting quarterbacks in later rounds, while evaluating risky choices and the unpredictability of draft rankings. Key players like Tyler Warren and Gentry also make their marks in this compelling draft landscape.

The Philadelphia Eagles dominated the trenches in a surprising Super Bowl LIX victory over the Chiefs. Jalen Hurts showcased his skills, leading the charge against a struggling Kansas City offense. The podcast dives into standout defensive performances, highlighting the Eagles' ability to pressure Patrick Mahomes. There's also a discussion on the strategic coaching that fueled the Eagles' success, along with insights into player matchups and future prospects for both teams. NFL drafting strategies and financial decisions are also examined as pivotal for ongoing success.