The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

The trends that NFL coaches see emerging around the league

<p>After visiting 23 teams in person over the last month, Robert Mays is finally back home. While he was out on the road, he asked the 50 or so NFL coaches he spoke to about the trends they see starting to take root across the league. That's great information for Robert to have, and it's also fun information to share with our audience. From three-high-safety looks on defense to more under center straight dropbacks on offense, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into the trends coaches in the league are watching on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>7:41 Vikings-style pressure looks</p><p>15:17 Three high safeties</p><p>20:56 Even more motion on offense</p><p>31:12 The designed QB run game</p><p>36:34 The return of under center straight dropbacks</p><p>44:13 Packers-style backfield actions in the run game</p><p>52:49 The "escort screen"</p><p>56:15 How 4th down aggressiveness affects 3rd down play calling</p><br><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The 2025-26 debut of Building the Beast with Dane Brugler

<p>Dane Brugler is back on The Athletic Football Show year-round. Every week through the draft, Dane and Dave Helman will bring you Building the Beast, giving you a week-by-week look at how The Beast comes together. In this debut episode, Dane explains the process of building his initial top 50, and then he and Dave go through the top draft prospects and five key positions. They wrap things up with prospects to watch in Week 0 and Week 1 of the college football season.</p><br><p>Hosts: Dave Helman and Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bears, Raiders and 49ers beat writers

<p>Robert Mays is just about off the road, but we've still got a double Beat Writer Notebook weekend for the masses. This episode features Kevin Fishbain, Tashan Reed and Matt Barrows, The Athletic's Bears, Raiders and 49ers beat writers, respectively. Can Ben Johnson be exactly what Caleb Williams needs? Is Pete Carroll the man to get the Raiders on track? Are the 49ers as ready for a rebound season as they appear to be? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>2:44 Robert Mays and Kevin Fishbain from Bears camp</p><p>32:56 Robert Mays and Tashan Reed from Raiders camp</p><p>1:02:57 Robert Mays and Matt Barrows from 49ers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Kevin Fishbain, Tashan Reed, Matt Barrows</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Kevin on Bluesky: @kfishbain.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Tashan on Bluesky: @tashanreed.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Matt on Bluesky: @mattbarrows.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Kevin on X: @kfishbain</p><p>Follow Tashan on X: @tashanreed</p><p>Follow Matt on X: @mattbarrows</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bengals, Colts and Packers beat writers

<p>Training camp is winding down, and so, too, is Robert Mays' Beat Writer Notebook. We've got two more for you this weekend, though, beginning with Paul Dehner Jr., James Boyd and Matt Schneidman, The Athletic's Bengals, Colts and Packers beat writers, respectively. Can the Bengals defense simply be good enough? What should we make of the Colts quarterback situation? Is this the season this version of the Packers takes off? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:00 Robert Mays and Paul Dehner Jr. from Bengals camp</p><p>32:13 Robert Mays and James Boyd from Colts camp</p><p>1:01:57 Robert Mays and Matt Schneidman from Packers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Paul Dehner Jr., James Boyd, Matt Schneidman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Paul on Bluesky: @pauldehnerjr.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Matt on Bluesky: @mattschneidman.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Paul on X: @pauldehnerjr</p><p>Follow James on X: @RomeovilleKid</p><p>Follow Matt on X: @mattschneidman</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

First impressions of the 2025 rookie class

<p>First impressions are pretty important in all facets of life. So what sort of first impressions did some of the youngsters across the league make in Week 1 of the preseason? Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen dig into the QBs, the key offensive linemen, Travis Hunter, the rookies on the 49ers defense and more on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

A Seat at the Table: The teams that can win the Super Bowl

<p>It's time for an annual bit on The Athletic Football Show. And what better way to stage a bit on an NFL podcast than against the backdrop of the Super Bowl. As much upheaval as there is in the NFL every year, we all know that there's an inner circle of Super Bowl contenders to start the season. They are the teams with A Seat at the Table. The composition of the table will change as the season goes on, and we'll be there for every twist and turn. But for now, as the beginning of the season draws near, these are the 10 teams with A Seat at the Table.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Eight potential out-of-nowhere units on offense and defense

<p>Last year at this time, no one was expecting much from the Commanders offense or the Broncos defense. By the end of the season, they were among the units that defined 2024. Which units can pull off the same feat and come from out of nowhere to carry their teams this season. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen point to eight candidates—four offenses and four defenses—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:52 Cowboys offense</p><p>13:33 Titans offense</p><p>24:43 Raiders offense</p><p>34:31 Panthers offense</p><p>46:35 49ers defense</p><p>52:52 Cardinals defense</p><p>1:04:50 Colts defense</p><p>1:11:20 Patriots defense</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Which division is most likely to put three teams in the playoffs?

<p>The NFL expanded to 14 total playoff teams, seven per conference, in 2020. In each of the five seasons since expansion, at least one division sent three teams to the playoffs. It was two last season, with the AFC West and NFC North pulling off the trick. So we can say with relative certainty that at least one division will have three playoff teams this season. Which division is going to keep the streak alive? Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen rank them from least to most likely on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Panthers, Browns and Commanders beat writers

<p>Look, you visit with eight teams in one week, you gotta have two Beat Writer Notebooks. In this edition, Robert talks with Joe Person, Zac Jackson and Nicki Jhabvala, The Athletic's Panthers, Browns and Commanders beat writers, respectively. How legitimate is the optimism for the Panthers offense? How do the Browns even measure success this season? What can the Commanders do to follow up on last season's unexpected breakthrough? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><br><p>4:01 Robert and Joe Person from Panthers camp</p><p>27:21 Robert and Zac Jackson from Browns camp</p><p>48:08 Robert and Nicki Jhabvala from Commanders camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Joe Person, Zac Jackson, Nicki Jhabvala</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Joe on Bluesky: @josephperson.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Nicki on Bluesky: @nickijhabvala.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Joe on X: @josephperson</p><p>Follow Zac on X: @AkronJackson</p><p>Follow Nicki on X: @NickiJhabvala</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bills and Steelers beat writers

<p>Robert Mays is coming off his busiest week of training camp yet, having spent the previous seven days with eight different teams (gotta love joint practices). In this edition of the Beat Writer Notebook, Robert talks with Joe Buscaglia, The Athletic's Bills beat writer, and Mike DeFabo, The Athletic's Steelers beat writer. How do the Bills finally get over the hump? Can Aaron Rodgers find enough of the fountain of youth to push the Steelers to another level?&nbsp;Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Plus, Robert and Derrik Klassen cover the injuries to Rashawn Slater and C.J. Gardner-Johnson.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><br><p>3:10 Rashawn Slater and C.J. Gardner-Johnson injuries</p><p>17:25 Robert and Joe Buscaglia at Bills camp</p><p>45:36 Robert and Mike DeFabo at Steelers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Joe Buscaglia, Mike DeFabo</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Joe on Bluesky: @joebuscaglia.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Mike on Bluesky: @mikedefabo.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Joe on X: @JoeBuscaglia</p><p>Follow Mike on X: @MikeDeFabo</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The early training camp storylines that actually matter

<p>Teams have been at training camp for a couple weeks now, so you know what that means. We've got plenty of storylines floating around out there. Some of them matter. Many of them don't. Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen wade through them and separate what actually has meaning from what doesn't on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:09 Matthew Stafford's back injury</p><p>13:27 Ben Johnson's aggressive approach to training camp</p><p>24:07 The Saints QB battle</p><p>32:20 Depth chart silliness</p><p>52:57 Rookie WRs turning heads</p><p>1:01:45 Aireontae Ersery pushing for a starting job in Houston</p><br><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Quarterbacks at a crossroads in 2025

<p>There is a subset of quarterbacks for whom the 2025 season is an inflection point. For some of them, it's about their future in the league. For others, it's due to the massive changes around them. For still others, it's about their legacy. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss eight quarterbacks at a crossroads this season on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:11 Kyler Murray</p><p>21:22 Jared Goff</p><p>34:26 Trevor Lawrence</p><p>46:47 C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love</p><p>55:56 Brock Purdy</p><p>1:03:05 Patrick Mahomes</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Half-baked takes for the 2025 NFL season

<p>Some takes are meticulously crafted, with each ingredient perfectly balanced to create a rational, thought-out, deeply held belief. Others are slapped together, thrown in the oven for, you know, whatever length of time feels right, and dropped down on the table to consume at your own risk. These are the latter. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman offer up their half-baked takes for the 2025 season on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown</p><p>7:00 Micah Parsons isn't getting traded and Jerry Jones isn't serious about winning football games (this is a fully baked take)</p><p>10:43 The Niners will win 12+ games</p><p>17:02 The Vikings will finish last in the NFC North</p><p>24:45 This is the year the Steelers crash out</p><p>35:42 The NFC will have massive playoff turnover this season</p><p>41:50 This is the season the Packers go nuclear</p><p>48:14 Abolish the draft so players like Myles Garrett don't get stuck on teams like the Browns forever</p><p>55:57 The NFL needs a leaguewide standardized bye week</p><p>1:05:40 Bo Nix was just kinda getting away with it last year, and that's not gonna happen this year</p><p>1:15:56 Zac Robinson is this year's Liam Coen</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

We're ready to get hurt again: The teams, players and ideas we just can't quit

<p>We should know better. We really should. We've been at this for a long time, and we know that believing in certain teams and players is bad for us. And yet, come this time of year, we can't help ourselves. We go back to that well. So who are we ready to be hurt by again this season? Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen open up and get vulnerable on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Eagles and Jets beat writers

<p>Robert Mays went to so many training camps in the previous week, we had to split this weekend's Beat Writer Notebook into two episodes. On this edition of the Beat Writer Notebook, Robert speaks to Brooks Kubena and Zack Rosenblatt, The Athletic's Eagles and Jets beat writers, respectively. What do the Eagles do to live up to a Super Bowl encore? How does Aaron Glenn transform the Jets? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Brooks Kubena, Zack Rosenblatt</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Brooks on Bluesky: @bkubena.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Zack on Bluesky: @zackblatt.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Brooks on X: @BKubena</p><p>Follow Zack on X: @ZackBlatt</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Seahawks, Falcons and Ravens beat writers

<p>Robert Mays began the previous week in Seattle. He ended it in New York, by way of the southeast and mid-Atlantic. So, yeah, he's been around a bit. Robert checks in with Michael-Shawn Dugar, Josh Kendall and Jeff Zrebiec—the Athletic's beat writers for the Seahawks, Falcons, Ravens and Eagles, respectively—on this edition of the Beat Writer Notebook. What's the ceiling for the very good Seahawks defense? What are the expectations for Michael Penix in his first season as the starter? How do the Ravens finally get over the hump? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:27 Seattle Seahawks</p><p>41:36 Atlanta Falcons</p><p>1:07:14 Baltimore Ravens</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Michael-Shawn Dugar, Josh Kendall, Jeff Zrebiec, Brooks Kubena</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Michael-Shawn on X: @MikeDugar</p><p>Follow Josh on X: @JoshTheAthletic</p><p>Follow Jeff on X: @jeffzrebiec</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The team DNA changers for the 2025 season

<p>Most offseason acquisitions are going to bring some change to their new teams. There's a reason why their new teams went out and got them, after all. A select few of those acquisitions, however, aren't simply going to bring a little change. They're going to completely change their new team's DNA on their side of the ball, opening up an entirely different style of play and new look for the unit. Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman run through their top DNA changers for the 2025 season on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:30 Cam Bynum</p><p>12:14 Poona Ford</p><p>19:47 Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga</p><p>28:54 Haason Reddick</p><p>34:30 Will Fries and Ryan Kelly</p><p>41:44 Omarion Hampton</p><p>48:42 Andre Cisco</p><p>57:23 Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr.</p><p>1:06:03 Armand Membou</p><br><p><br></p><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Training camp news roundup: Rashawn Slater and Courtland Sutton get new deals, Cowboys and Rams dealing with injuries, clarity for OL in Kansas City and Detroit, and more

<p>A whole lot has happened during the first week of training camp. A bunch of good players got contract extensions. Injuries are unfortunately already changing plans across the league. Storylines are emerging, and not all of them are your usual July camp silliness. Some of them are worth digging into! Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman round up the first week of training camp news on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who has the most at stake in 2025?

<p>Every NFL season is important to every person in the league. But we know that some players, coaches and executives have more at stake in any given season than others. So who has the most at stake in 2025? Robert Mays and Dave Helman answer that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Lessons learned from the league's best offenses

<p>The best teams in the league can keep their secret sauce secret for only so long. Teams are always hunting for an edge wherever they can find it, and it's never been easier to tap into how other teams are finding success. That's especially true on the offensive side of the ball, where you are holding the pen more often than not. So what can we learn from the best offenses in the league? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen are joined by Bobby Peters, owner and operator of the Alert the Post Substack, to answer that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Bobby Peters</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Bobby on X: @b_peters12</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Lions, Chargers and Cowboys beat writers

<p>Robert Mays' Homeric tour of the NFL world is underway, with stops across the previous week in Detroit, Los Angeles and San Diego. While there, he spoke with Colton Pouncy, Daniel Popper and Jon Machota, The Athletic's beat writers for the Lions, Chargers and Cowboys, respectively. How will the Lions handle the brain drain? Where can the Chargers find more juice on offense? How do the Cowboys feel different under first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Colton Pouncy, Daniel Popper, Jon Machota</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Colton on Bluesky: @coltonpouncy.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Colton on X: @colton_pouncy</p><p>Follow Daniel on X: @danielrpopper</p><p>Follow Jon on X: @jonmachota</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Sneaky big second-year player X-factors

<p>It's easy to overlook second-year players who A) didn't have huge rookie seasons, or B) aren't quarterbacks. But you don't have to be Jayden Daniels or Malik Nabers or Jared Verse to be an X-factor for your team—and, by extension, the league—in your second season. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen highlight six sneaky second-year X-factors on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:22 Any second-year Falcons defensive lineman</p><p>13:16 Christian Mahogany, Lions LG</p><p>20:37 Cole Bishop, Bills S</p><p>26:56 Kris Jenkins, Bengals DT</p><p>36:51 Renardo Green, 49ers CB</p><p>44:34 Blake Fisher, Texans RT</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

What can the surprise teams of 2024 do for an encore?

<p>There's a temptation to believe that surprise teams from the previous season are on a clear upward trajectory. But we know that isn't always true. Just ask the 2022-23 Giants or 2021-22 Raiders. Four of last year's playoff teams significantly outperformed preseason expectations and made the playoffs: the Commanders, Chargers, Broncos and Vikings. Is the arrow really pointing up for those teams? Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen break it down on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:07 Washington Commanders</p><p>21:19 Los Angeles Chargers</p><p>35:41 Denver Broncos</p><p>53:40 Minnesota Vikings</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

2025 versions of 2024 stories

<p>Take a moment to think about the unexpected developments that helped define the 2024 NFL season. The Washington Commanders going to the NFC Championship Game. The 49ers missing the playoffs entirely. Jared Verse immediately taking the league by storm. Saquon Barkley changing teams and having a season for the ages. Each of those was a huge story last year that was felt across the league. What might be the 2025 versions of those stories? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dig into that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Our biggest questions heading into training camp

<p>If you're listening to this episode the day it comes out, the Lions and Chargers are at training camp. If you're listening to it a few days later, even more teams are at camp. No matter when you're listening to it, training camp is here. And we have questions. Oh boy, do we have questions. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman talk through their biggest questions as camp begins on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

SPECIAL No Free Lunch feed drop: The Hidden Costs of NFL Rookie Contracts w/ Vita Vea

<p>No Free Lunch is a new podcast in The Athletic podcast network. Hosted by former NFL star Ndamukong Suh, No Free Lunch talks to athletes and experts about how the most successful people in sports manage their money and grow their wealth.</p><br><p>On this episode, Ndamukong talks with his former teammate and current Tampa Bay Buccaneer Vita Vea. They discuss what goes into rookie contracts - specifically the cost of being a young player in the NFL. From fines and rookie dinners to helping family and offseason training— players can have a lot of expenses. Ndamukong and Vita also discuss the importance of building the right financial team to help with budgeting and investing.</p><br><p>Host: Ndamukong Suh</p><p>Executive Producer: Grace Piro Delia</p><p>Producer: Danny Sellers</p><p>Editor: David Caputo</p><br><p>Instagram: @nofreelunchshow</p><p>Tik Tok:@nofreelunchshow</p><p>https://www.youtube.com/@NoFreeLunchWithSuh</p><p>-------</p><p>T. Rowe Price proudly sponsors No Free Lunch. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect those of T. Rowe Price. Their sponsorship supports the platform and does not imply endorsement of specific content or perspectives.</p><br><p>The information provided on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified financial and/or legal professional before making any legal or financial decisions or investments.</p><br><p>Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided through Choice Financial Group, Column N.A., and Evolve Bank &amp; Trust; Members FDIC.</p><br><p>#nfl #money #finance #jordan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The league's most cursed franchise, the determiners of floor and ceiling, the merits of Zac Taylor, and more in our final mailbag of the offseason

<p>We're deep into July. Training camp is right around the corner. NFL people have all taken their vacations. It's official...the offseason is over. And with that comes the end of regular TAFS mailbag episodes. In our final mailbag of the offseason, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen tackle questions on the league's most cursed franchise, the most important non-QB factors for floor and ceiling, Zac Taylor and his merits, Nick Caserio and his merits, one last question on fandom, and a whole lot more.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Michael Beller</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Beller on Bluesky: @mbeller.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The quarterback honorability index

<p>Our own Derrik Klassen loves talking about honorable and dishonorable play across the NFL. Perhaps you've found yourself sitting there saying to your device, 'Hey Derrik, what exactly does it mean to be honorable?' Well, today is your lucky day. Using the quarterback position as a vehicle, Derrik walks through his Honorability Index with Dave Helman on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who's the 6th-best QB in the NFL?

<p>Everyone—literally everyone—people would place Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow among the top-five quarterbacks in the NFL. An overwhelming majority would round out that list with Justin Herbert. Ask 10 people who the sixth-best QB is, though, and you could get 10 different answers. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman try to pin&nbsp;who that sixth-best QB is on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Inside the fallout surrounding the NFLPA's collusion grievance, with Pablo Torre

<p>Pablo Torre kicked the NFL news cycle into hyperdrive last month in what's supposed to be a relatively quiet part of the calendar when he dropped on his podcast the 61-page ruling behind a collusion grievance filed by the NFLPA against the league. The story has only picked up steam since then, highlighted by news—broken by ESPN last week—of a confidentiality agreement between the league and players union to hide the details of the arbitration decision. So where does all this stand with all 32 teams set to open training camp in a matter of days? Pablo joins Robert Mays to dig into all the details on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Pablo Torre</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Apple⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠Spotify⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠YouTube⁠</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Pablo on Bluesky: @pablo.showt</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Pablo on X: @PabloTorre</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>