The Ringer NFL Show

Andrew Whitworth, a former All-Pro tackle and Super Bowl champion, shares insights on key Week 1 matchups, including the fierce rivalry between the Lions and Packers. He discusses the Seahawks’ strategic adjustments and the anticipation surrounding their game against the 49ers. The conversation also delves into the importance of strong starts for playoff contention, the impact of home-field advantage, and the dynamics of offensive line communication. It's a thrilling kickoff to the NFL season, filled with exciting storylines!

Sheil welcomes Steven Ruiz from The Ringer, diving into which quarterbacks, including Daniel Jones and Justin Fields, are at risk of being benched by 2025. They analyze the pressures on these players, from past performance to fan expectations, and the tightrope acts they must perform. The conversation also touches on the implications of recent trades, including the buzz around Micah Parsons. It's a candid look at the uncertainty swirling around NFL quarterbacks and their futures.

In a bold forecast for the NFL, predictions suggest the Chiefs will miss the championship round while the Seahawks could dominate defensively. The potential downfall of Mike McDaniel in Miami sparks debate, juxtaposed against Kyle Shanahan's rising candidacy for Coach of the Year. Meanwhile, fans might find Kirk Cousins playing pivotal games in December as the Falcons turn heads. Closing thoughts dive into the Rams’ competitive viability under Sean McVay, despite injury worries.

Shawn Syed, the lead counsel from SumerSports, argues for a handful of up-and-coming quarterbacks ready to take the league by storm in 2025. He passionately presents cases for Drake Maye, Bryce Young, and Trevor Lawrence, among others, assessing their growth and potential. The courtroom-style debate examines Brock Purdy's resilience and J.J. McCarthy's skills, along with C.J. Stroud’s impressive rookie season. The honorable Judge Kapadia ultimately decides who among them is most likely to be this year's breakout star.

Diante Lee, a staff writer at The Ringer, shares his immediate insights on the jaw-dropping trade sending Micah Parsons to the Packers. He unpacks how this move not only revolutionizes Green Bay's defense but also spells turmoil for the Cowboys and their management under Jerry Jones. The discussion dives into player-team dynamics, the impact on future negotiations, and the uncertain fate of Dak Prescott in light of Arch Manning’s emergence. This trade has left Cowboys fans reeling and questioning their leadership.

Fran Duffy, Lead Draft Analyst for All City Network, dives into the thrilling prospects of the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on an impressive quarterback class. He discusses Arch Manning's potential entry and the pressures of his legacy, alongside other emerging talents like Garrett Nussmeier and Cade Klubnik. The conversation also highlights the overall strength of the draft class and includes insights into non-quarterback prospects like Keldric Faulk. Sheil wraps up the talk by analyzing Kyle Hamilton’s significant contract extension with the Ravens.

The host categorizes all 32 NFL teams into five tiers based on their Super Bowl winning potential. Insights into team strengths and weaknesses, like those of the Saints and Jets, fuel spirited discussions. Excitement brews around the Bears, blending a strong defense with rookie Caleb Williams at the helm. The unpredictable nature of NFL careers is analyzed through Spencer Rattler’s journey, underscoring how timing can shape a player's fate. Tune in for a deep dive into which teams are real contenders for the next season!

Joining Sheil Kapadia, Anthony Dabbundo, an analyst on The Ringer Gambling Show, dives into the intriguing dynamics of the upcoming NFL season. They dissect over/under win totals for teams like the Washington Commanders and Tennessee Titans, revealing betting strategies and performance projections. Dabbundo highlights the importance of coaching efficacy and recent player changes, while keeping an eye on the optimistic offensive capabilities of various teams. The discussion rounds off with insights on contract negotiations and exciting wagering opportunities.

In this episode, Ben Solak, an ESPN analyst and former Ringer employee known for his sharp football insights, teams up with Sheil to discuss fresh takes ahead of the NFL season. They explore Justin Fields' potential bounce-back in Chicago, the Ravens' chances of playoff success, and whether Justin Herbert belongs in the top-five quarterbacks. Solak shares his belief in Caleb Williams’ upcoming breakout alongside coach Ben Johnson, while Sheil weighs in on the ongoing drama involving Micah Parsons and the Cowboys.

Andy Greenwald, a passionate Philadelphia Eagles fan and co-host of The Watch podcast, shares insights on the team's Super Bowl prospects. He and host Sheil Kapadia discuss the best and worst-case scenarios for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles this season. They analyze the team's championship dynamics and evolving strategies while addressing concerns over season challenges like injuries and competition. With humor and depth, they explore rivalries and the transformation of fan sentiment, painting a vivid picture of hope for Eagles supporters.